Issuu

Summer 2026

VOLUME 14 • ISSUE 2

the journal of the mounta in hunter a nd committed conservationist

WINTER 2013/14 ~ WILD S HEEP 3

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Summer 2026

CONTENTS the journal of the mountain hunter and committed conservationist

Departments: 10 14 16 20 34 36 120 122 124 126 132 134 140 146 148 154 156 161 164

President’s Message Chair’s Corner Biologist’s Corner Sheep Stats Legislative Affairs Awards Basecamp Dispatches Chapters & Affiliates List Chapters & Affiliates Banquets Women Hunt® Culinary Corner Conservation Education Sheep Shorts Adventure Profiles <1 Club® Kicked Out Last Sheep Camp Travel & Gear Advertiser’s Index On the Adventure Trail

Features:

Marco Polo

by Pedro De Ampuero

by Jack Actheson

Mapping out your next mountain hunt.

A Gentleman’s First Sheep Hunt, His .375 Rigby, & His Bible by Jonathan Wright, Esq.

Holding true to a personal challenge to take a sheep with an iconic rifle.

The Old Isard of Cobazet by Alexander Sharif

Stalking chamois in the French Pyrenees.

On the Cover:

How Do You Prepare For High-Elevation Hunting? MTNTOUGH

Photo: Pedro De Ampuero “I read the note on my riser one more time, adjusted the sight, and drew back for the most important arrow of my life. Twenty-five years of bowhunting had led to this moment, and I could feel the pressure sitting on my shoulders. As the arrow disappeared into the air, I lost sight of it, but then I heard the impact, quickly followed by everyone shouting, ‘Good shot! Good shot!’”

Meeting the challenge of an archery Marco Polo.

The Atcheson Ibex Briefing

Special Sections: 103 2027 Auction Preview 112 Annuli Photo Essay

A realistic look at the harsh physical realities of a mountain hunt—and how to prepare.

Four Women Bighorn Hunter Conservationists...And Big Rams

‘Pedro, the Marco Polo is dead. We made it. It’s over. We made it.’”

by Bryan Bartlett & WSF Staff

Read the full story of Pedro Ampeuro’s Archery Marco Polo beginning on page 40.

Celebrating the contribution to conservation and the legacy of women hunters in New Mexico. SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 3

the journal of the mounta in hunter a nd committed conservationist

Official publication of The Wild Sheep Foundation

WSF World Headquarters: 412 Pronghorn Trail • Bozeman, MT 59718 • 406-404-8750 Cody Office: 1285 Sheridan Avenue, Suites 260/275 • Cody, WY 82414 • 406-404-8750

OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

INTERIM CHAIR: Kyle Stelter • kstelter@wildsheepfoundation.org....................... Term Expires 2028 SECRETARY: Jann Demaske • demaskes@msn.com.............................................. Term Expires 2026 TREASURER: Larry Jacobs • lljacobs4@aol.com....................................................Term Expires 2027 Clint Bentley • sheepspotr@aol.com.........................................................................Term Expires 2027 Bralli Clifford • bclifford@wildsheepfoundation.org.................................................. Term Expires 2028 Sam Cunningham • scunningham@wildsheepfoundation.org.....................................Term Expires 2027 Kevin Kehoe • kkehoe@wildsheepfoundation.org...................................................... Term Expires 2028 Larry Johns • ljohns@wildsheepfoundation.org......................................................... Term Expires 2028 Emilio Rangel W. • emiliorw@me.com • rangel@wildsheepfoundation.org.................Term Expires 2027 Logan Richard Young • loganyoung270@gmail.com............................................... Term Expires 2026

PRESIDENT & CEO Gray N. Thornton • gthornton@wildsheepfoundation.org

STAFF Gray N. Thornton • gthornton@wildsheepfoundation.org • Bozeman HQ PRESIDENT & CEO - EDITOR IN CHIEF, WILD SHEEP ® MAGAZINE:

Corey Mason, Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President of Conservation Certified Wildlife Biologist® cmason@WildSheepFoundation.org Carrollton, TX Kim Nieters, VP of Operations - Auction Director knieters@WildSheepFoundation.org Cody, WY Terry Ziehl, Finance Director tziehl@WildSheepFoundation.org Cody, WY Keith Balfourd, Director of Marketing & Communications keith@WildSheepFoundation.org Bozeman, MT Julie Tripp, Awards & Publications Director jtripp@wildsheepfoundation.org Lolo, MT Paige Culver, Development Manager pculver@WildSheepFoundation.org Bozeman, MT Maddie Richards, Membership Manager/ <1 Clubs Manager mrichards@WildSheepFoundation.org Bozeman, MT Justin Phillips, Graphic Arts & Design Jphillips@wildsheepfoundation.org Cody, WY Megan Costanza, Banquets & Events Manager mcostanza@WildSheepFoundation.org Reno, NV Mike Aiazzi, Expo & Exhibits Manager maiazzi@wildsheepfoundation.org Reno, NV

Jaime Teigen, E-Commerce & Office Administrator jteigen@wildsheepfoundation.org Bozeman, MT Matt Dwonch, Marketing and Content Strategist mdwonch@wildsheepfoundation.org Bozeman, MT Rebecca Anne Tuthill, Assistant (PT) rrebrovich@wildsheepfoundation.org Bozeman, MT Margie Forster, Registration Assistant (PT) mforster@wildsheepfoundation.org Reno, NV Morgan Stuart, Development Asst. & Program Coordinator (PT) mstuart@wildsheepfoundation.org Bozeman, MT

CONTRACT & CONSULTANTS Kevin Hurley, Vice President of Conservation —Emeritus Certified Wildlife Biologist® khurley@WildSheepFoundation.org Boise, ID Dr. Ryan Brock, Youth Education Coordinator rbrock@wildsheepfoundation.org Reno, NV Greg Schildwachter, Lobbyist greg@watershedresults.com Washington, DC Charlie Booher, Lobbyist Associate Wildlife Biologist® charlie@watershedresults.com Missoula, MT Kurt Alt, Conservation Director— International Programs altwildlife@yahoo.com kalt@wildsheepfoundation.org Bozeman, MT & Brussels, Belgium

PRODUCTION STAFF Gray N. Thornton, Editor in Chief Julie Tripp, Editor Scott Morrison, Art/Design Director Justin Phillips, Graphics/Design

Ken Nowicki, Field Editor Chester Moore, Writer Ashley McEnroe, Writer Wayne van Zwoll, Contributor

CONTACT THE PUBLICATION

Pat Cummings, DNWR—NTTR Project Lead Patrickcummings1002@gmail.com Las Vegas, NV Maureen Jefferson, Conservation Permits Jm_hullinger@sbcglobal.net Las Vegas, NV Bill Jex, Thinhorn Sheep Program Lead RPBio BC bjex@wildsheepfoundation.org Smithers, BC Kevin Martin, USFS & BLM Planning Kevindmartin63@gmail.com Pendleton, OR Ashley McEnroe, Staff Writer aoliverio@gmail.com Big Sky, MT Shane Mahoney, Special Conservation Consultant shane@conservationvisions.com St. John’s, Newfoundland Chester Moore, Staff Writer chester@chestermoore.com Orange, TX Scott Morrison, Editor & Designer, Wild Sheep® magazine scott@morrisioncreative.com Livingston, MT Aibat Muzbay, Central Asia Specialist – International Programs amuzbay@wildsheepfoundation.org Karaganda, Kazakhstan Steve Rosenstock, Grant Writer Certified Wildlife Biologist® steve@wildsheepfoundation.org Flagstaff, AZ

Greg Schildwachter, Columnist Morrison Creative Company, Inc. Magazine Design/Production

Advertising & Editorial Submissions Wild Sheep Foundation Headquarters 412 Pronghorn Trail, Bozeman, MT 59718 ATTN: Editor

Contributing photos, articles, stories, and research pertaining to wild sheep or the interests of the members of WSF are always welcome. Contributed material will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include a selfaddressed stamped envelope if you wish materials to be returned. For more information on submission guidelines, meetings and convention information, and service, conservation and hunting award criteria, please visit our website at www.wildsheepfoundation.org. All membership dues include $28/year for a subscription to Wild Sheep® magazine.

PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE WILD SHEEP FOUNDATION OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA, IN CONJUNCTION WITH MORRISON CREATIVE COMPANY, INC. OF LIVINGSTON, MT.

4 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

The Wild Sheep Foundation’s mission is to enhance wild sheep populations, promote scientific wildlife management, and educate the public and youth on sustainable use and the conservation benefits of hunting while promoting the interests of the hunter. The tradition began on a November weekend at Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin, in 1974. Thirteen wild sheep enthusiasts passed the time by sharing stories about their encounters with the majestic mountain creatures. After realizing how fortunate they were to have all shared such incredible experiences, they decided it was time to give something back. They forged FNAWS so men and women everywhere could get more involved in the positive management of wild sheep. It was incorporated as a non-profit corporation in Iowa on September 14, 1977, and began accepting paid memberships in 1978 as more people joined the cause. The commitment and noble spirit of FNAWS quickly helped the foundation become the fastestgrowing wildlife conservation organization of its kind. DISCLAIMER While Wild Sheep Foundation strives to attract quality advertisers and donors, it cannot be responsible for the ultimate quality of the products which they may present to our members and buyers. Neither the Wild Sheep Foundation nor its Officers or Directors is a guarantor of your satisfaction with the products it makes available to you. Our dedication is to the wild sheep of the world and not to policing our advertisers or donors. We cannot, under the law, reject an advertiser or donation simply because of a prior complaint from a dissatisfied consumer. We will strive to make available quality merchandise and hunts, but without warranty or guarantee. WILD SHEEP FOUNDATION®, WSF, FOUNDATION FOR NORTH AMERICAN WILD SHEEP®, <1 CLUB®, <1ICLUB, CHADWICK RAM SOCIETY®, MARCO POLO SOCIETY®, MOUNTAIN ROYALTY SOCIETY, LEGENDS SOCIETY, PINNACLE SOCIETY, TODAY, TOMORROW, & FOREVER FOR WILD SHEEP, FNAWS, CHRIS KLINEBURGER MOUNTAIN HUNTER HALL OF FAME AWARD®, PUTTING AND KEEPING WILD SHEEP ON THE MOUNTAIN®, SHEEP SHOW®, SHEEP WEEK®, SHEEP FEVER®, TAKE ONE PUT ONE BACK®, THE SHEEP SHOW®, RAM LAY-AWAY PROGRAM®, WILD SHEEP® MAGAZINE, COME FOR THE SHEEP, STAY FOR THE PARTY®, FULL CURL®, WIHI®, WOMEN HUNT®, WH®, WOMEN IN HUNTING®, WOMEN IN HUNTING INITIATIVE® and their respective logos are Registered trademarks and cannot be used, commissioned, or otherwise displayed without permission of the Wild Sheep Foundation.

GRAND SLAM® is a registered trademark of Grand Slam Club/Ovis. Used with permission.

Wild Sheep® (ISSN: 2329-7891), USPS Publication #009-460, is published quarterly for $28 a year by Wild Sheep Foundation, 412 Pronghorn Trail, Bozeman, MT 59718. Periodical Postage Paid at Bozeman, MT and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address correction to Wild Sheep Foundation, 412 Pronghorn Trail, Bozeman, MT 59718.

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MISSION STATEMENT Vision Our desired future state

To be the best managed, most respected, influential, and relevant conservation organization benefitting wild sheep worldwide.

Purpose Why we exist

To Put and Keep Wild Sheep on the Mountain.

Mission What we do

We enhance wild sheep populations and their habitats, promote scientific wildlife management, and educate the public and youth on sustainable use and the conservation benefits of hunting while promoting the interests of the hunter.

Values The principles that guide us

Honesty Integrity Respect for Others

Teamwork Positive Attitude Respect for Wildlife Hunting Ethics

Accountability Stewardship Loyalty

Putting and Keeping Wild Sheep on the Mountain Since 1977 6 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE by Gray N. Thornton President & CEO

50 YEARS OF WILD SHEEP CONSERVATION AND LEADERSHIP

nother successful year draws to a close June 30th as we launch head on into the 2026-2027 fiscal year. This net fiscal marks a milestone and includes the first six months of our 50th Anniversary activities as well as our 50th Sheep Show® convention set for February 3-6, 2027 in Reno. Plans are well underway for this grand celebration of 50 years of wild sheep conservation and leadership. More on that later. WSF continues to enjoy record fundraising which results in millions of dollars directed to the wild sheep resource, our agency partners charged with its conservation and management, our industry partners, as well as our education and advocacy programs to ensure sustainable use is at the forefront of wildlife and wild sheep restoration. For the third year in a row, we will direct more than $11 million to Mission Program Funding to our core mission areas of wild sheep conservation, advocacy, education, and the promotion and perpetuation of our hunting heritage. Our final quarter of the fiscal year saw a great deal of event activity including our second annual Icons of Conservation Gala in New Orleans, our Thinhorn Summit IV in Prince George, BC, and our Chapter & Affiliate Summit

10 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

XVIII hosted by our partners the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Society in Grand Junction, CO. Special thanks to our sponsors of both the Thinhorn Summit and the C&A Summit for your exceptional support. And, thank you all who attended our Icons Gala where we celebrated and inducted Lee & Penny Anderson, Oscar & Val Carlson, Ron Roderick, and Doug & Shelly Sayer into this very elite society of exceptional hunter/ conservationist. Also during Q3 and Q4, our conservation staff of Kevin Hurley, Kurt Alt, and Bill Jex, exceptionally led by EVP of Conservation and COO Corey Mason, worked collaboratively with our “head shed” of experts, the WSF Professional Resource Advisory Board (PRAB) of Melanie Woolever, Peregrine Wolff, DVM, Vern Bleich, PhD, Clay Brewer, Kate Huyvaert, DVM, and Daryl Lutz, masterfully led by PRAB Chair Helen Schwantje, DVM to develop our Conservation Vision 2030 as well as our conservation priorities for funding this next year and beyond. These guiding principles were adopted by the board of directors during their recent board meeting in May and will serve not only as a litmus test for WSF’s conservation focus through 2030, but also as a

guide to direct conservation Grant in Aid (GIA) this next few years to be most impactful to the wild sheep resource and the habitat they depend on. Both of these guiding documents can be found on our website by clicking this QR code:

Without question, WSF directs more dollars annually to the wild sheep and wildlife resource than any other peer in our space, but the impact of those dollars, or in

financial terms—the return on our investment—is what counts. I encourage you all to review both of these fine works and thank and congratulate our conservation and PRAB team for their stellar efforts. Our conservation staff and PRAB panel of experts are best-in-class and the CV2030 vision document and our conservation priorities documents they produced are the finest and most impactful I’ve seen in my years with WSF. Well done! June/July are also budgeting months and July 1st opens the 30day GIA application window for project funding. Once again WSF has budgeted more than $4 million in Mission Program Funding including more than $3.5 million in GIA, plus $1 million in ongoing advocacy, outreach, education, and industry support funding. Added to the permit dollars we will sell and then direct to agencies next year, we are on track for another $11 - $12 million directed to wild sheep and our mission and purpose during our 50th year. WSF’s 50th Anniversary Sheep Show® will of course include a look back on our founding and 50 years of wild sheep conservation excellence, but more important, it will be a look forward to the next 25 and 50 years. We will soon launch our incredible Sheep Show® Raffle, which this next year is truly the Ultimate Mountain Hunter’s Raffle, with nine ovis and five capra up for grabs! This exceptional raffle will include: (planned as of press time)

Ovis Offerings: 1. Dall’s Sheep 2. Fannin Sheep 3. Stone’s Sheep 4. California Bighorn Sheep 5. Desert Bighorn Sheep 6. Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep 7. Marco Polo Sheep 8. Gobi Argali Sheep 9. Blue Sheep

Capra Offerings: 1. Bezoar Ibex 2. Sindh Ibex 3. Mid Asian Ibex 4. Gobi Ibex 5. Rocky Mountain Goat Watch for more details on this 50th Anniversary once-in-a-lifetime offering. There will be limited tickets available, but you will be able to reserve tickets soon. Be on the lookout for a mid-summer launch! Our firearm partners are also coming to the party in a big way and the fall issue of Wild Sheep® will include a feature of the “Guns of the 50th” which will showcase one-of-a-kind firearms offered on WSF Sheep Show® auctions.

Special works of art from Beretta, Blaser, Bollinger, Fanzoj, Griffin & Howe, Gunwerks, Magnum Research, Weatherby, and others are in process. We kick off the show Wednesday February 3rd with a Sheep Week® Day at the Range at the Washoe County Range. This event will be open to the public and free of charge to attendees. Come out and try before you buy with WSF firearms, optics, and range related vendors showing their wares in a live fire event. WSF staff and our various committees are also hard at work with special guests and entertainment worthy of our golden celebration. Our 50th will only happen once. Don’t miss out! Online registration will open soon. Enjoy the summer, good luck in the July and August sheep openers, and as always, thank you for your membership and support of Wild Sheep Foundation. WS

Gray N. Thornton President & CEO, Wild Sheep Foundation Editor-in-Chief, Wild Sheep® magazine Marco Polo Society® Member Summit Life Member Chadwick Ram Society® Member Legacy Society Member Summit Life Member

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 11

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CHAIR’S CORNER by Kyle Stelter Interim Chair

ONE FAMILY. ONE MISSION. THE FUTURE OF WILD SHEEP

s I write this Chair Corner for the summer edition, my thoughts turn naturally to the fall, knowing many of our members will soon be in the field hunting, guiding, or simply celebrating wild sheep. We may come to this mission from different places, but we are united by a shared purpose: healthy wild sheep on healthy landscapes. As the Wild Sheep Foundation approaches its 50th Anniversary, I find myself reflecting on those who came before us. Half a century ago, thirteen visionaries gathered at Mount Horeb to share stories and, more importantly, protect something deeply meaningful to them. They understood that wild sheep were worth fighting for—not only for their generation—but for those who would follow. Many have carried that responsibility since what began as the Foundation for North American Wild Sheep evolved into the Wild Sheep Foundation. Today, we are 11,000 members strong, yet remain grounded in the values that brought us here. My time on the board has allowed me to learn from some of the giants of our organization. I am especially grateful to past chairs Charlie Kelly and Glen Landrus for their leadership, mentorship, and for leaving the foundation in such strong shape. As your chair, one of my highest priorities is ensuring we operate as one team. That commitment extends beyond the board and 14 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

staff to our Professional Resource Advisory Board, Chapters and Affiliates, the Wild Sheep Legacy Foundation, agencies, conservation partners, and industry supporters. Strong collaboration and communication across the WSF family will be essential to delivering our mission. Another of my chair goals is to budget $2 million for the Grant in Aid process in fiscal year 2026/2027. This is in addition to more than $7 million generated through permit sales and directed to state, provincial, and tribal agencies. Together, these investments represent a significant commitment to wild sheep conservation, including $3.2 million in Grant in Aid and $4.38 million in mission program funding. This year, we are also working to establish a Conservation Impact Fund with a budget of $200,000. While Grant in Aid remains incredibly effective, we must also be able to respond quickly when urgent opportunities arise. A translocation, emergency water haul, or other time-sensitive project should not have to wait for the next grant cycle. Strategic and succession planning also remain front of mind. This work began last year and will continue as we position WSF to meet future conservation challenges while supporting the continued growth and maturity of our organization. Building new partnerships will

open new doors for the wild sheep resource. One priority is developing a tribal and First Nations partnership program focused on respectful, mission-aligned relationships and shared wildlife stewardship. We will also continue investing in telling our story. WSF must do an even better job showcasing our conservation successes, funded projects, and the essential role hunters play in wildlife stewardship. Our members, donors, and partners should clearly see the impact of their support. Finally, we must all support and elevate WSF’s 50th Anniversary. This milestone is more than a celebration—it is an opportunity to strengthen our brand, grow membership, enhance fundraising, honor our conservation legacy, and inspire the future. In closing, let us reflect on the ram, the ewe, and the lamb on the mountain. They remind us that conservation is not only about the present. It is about continuity, legacy, and responsibility. It is about ensuring that what we have fought for, invested in, and believed in will endure for generations to come. That is the future of wild sheep. Let us move forward together—with gratitude for the past, unity in the present, and resolve for the future. One Family. One Mission. The Future of Wild Sheep. WS

Kyle Stelter

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BIOLOGIST’S CORNER by Bill Jex Thinhorn Sheep Program Lead Download Presenter Handouts Here.

THINHORN SHEEP SUMMIT IV: A NEW ERA OF ACTION FOR NORTHERN WILD SHEEP

he Wild Sheep Foundation’s Thinhorn Sheep Summit IV, held May 5–7, 2026 in Prince George, British Columbia, marked a decisive shift from identifying challenges to equipping practitioners with concrete, science‑based tools for action. More than 65 in‑person attendees and 24 virtual participants gathered for two days of presentations, collaborative sessions, and knowledge exchange focused on the future of Dall’s and Stone’s sheep across Alaska, Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and British Columbia. As WSF’s Thinhorn Program Lead Bill Jex put it, “This year’s Summit focused on those past accomplishments and associated science, but then took that and formatted it into a

16 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

suite of how‑to actions.” From the outset, the summit emphasized the accelerating environmental pressures facing thinhorn sheep. Climate and

IV remote sensing specialists, and wildlife researchers, outlined how consistently warmer annual average temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, changing snowscapes, and increasingly volatile winters are reshaping alpine ecosystems. Additional studies highlighted the growing influence

of freeze‑thaw cycles and rainon-snow events, losses through avalanche activity, and changing snow density thresholds that can favour predators of thinhorn sheep. Presenters also focused on tools that can be used to better understand what responses we might see in thinhorn populations as a result of weather events. For example, NASA‑funded research has shown that fall snow depth was the strongest predictor of the next spring’s lamb:ewe ratios, with deeper snow reducing recruitment. Habitat interventions formed another major theme. Presenters shared lessons from prescribed fire planning and post‑burn monitoring, and vegetation recovery following large‑scale wildfires. These sessions

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 17

provided practical guidance for jurisdictions seeking to restore or enhance seasonal ranges, improve forage quality, or increase habitat resilience under future climate scenarios. Human dimensions were equally prominent. Research on vehicle impacts along a remote industrial and recreational use road that bisected a migration route between summer and winter ranges, revealed that the amount of time the 10 collared, female Stone’s sheep took increased in the fall (~44 days) versus the time taken in spring (~25 days) with lambs at heel. This increase in time can be partly attributed to sheep ‘deflecting’ while attempting to cross (in spring 24 crossing attempts were made versus 32 in the fall). Delays in movement through low elevation habitats, away from escape

terrain can increase vulnerability and predation risk. Stress levels (measured through fecal cortisol levels) in those sheep were also significantly higher when crossing the road, than when sheep were on summer and winter ranges, underscoring the need for targeted best management practices that mitigate negative effects during annual movements. Additional talks explored hunter perceptions, non‑consumptive effects of hunting and responses from sheep to hunters, and techniques cameras in very remote landscapes. A recurring message throughout the summit was the importance of integrating traditional knowledge, modern technology, and cross‑jurisdictional collaboration. The event brought together First Nations leaders, wildlife managers, outfitters, students,

WSF’s Legacy Society recognizes individuals, families and foundations making testamentary bequests or contributions of major gifts, gift annuities or other charitable-giving instruments. Since inception of the Ensuring the Future of Wild Sheep (ETFOWS) campaign, 53 Legacy Society members have been recognized through WSF’s Legacy Society for contributions or pledges of future gifts. Bequests made through the New Beginnings Campaign* or other bequests may be recognized through the Legacy Society by contacting WSF. For more information on the Legacy Society or Estate Planning resources available through WSF, please contact Paige Culver at 406.404.8758 or PCulver@WildSheepFoundation.org. 18 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Anonymous Anonymous Lee & Penny Anderson Jack, Jr. & Cindy Atcheson Derek Blake Derek W.O. Berry Mike Borel Cabela’s Outdoor Fund David W. Campbell Rick & Heather Carosone Dr. Robert W. & Cynthia Cassell David & Sona Combs Monty & Becky Davis Howard & Mary Deters Doug & Patty Dreeszen Buddy DuVall Tom Grimes Eric & Sue Hansen Robert & Arlene Hanson Dr. Paul F. & Kathy J. Havey Zach & Amber Higgins Craig & Janet Johnson John R. & Mary Ann Justus Kevin & Eileen Kehoe Blair A. & Victoria M. Kenewell Robert M. Martin, Jr. Robert and Lisa Mays Roger McCosker Add Shannon & Kim Meadors

and conservation organizations— reflecting the shared responsibility for sustaining thinhorn populations. As Corey Mason, WSF COO, noted, “We all came together with an emphasis to do more for the wild sheep of Alaska, the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and British Columbia.” By the summit’s close, participants left not only with new science, but with practical frameworks, reference tools, and a renewed sense of collective purpose. In the spirit of the question posed at the first summit—What can we do for thinhorn sheep?—the 2026 gathering offered clear, actionable answers, grounded in the best available knowledge and a commitment to the mountain landscapes that define these iconic northern ungulates. WS

(WA) Kyle & Joanne Meintzer Chuck Middleton David Mode Gordon Nelson John & Leslie Pearson Brad R. Plaga Robert L. & J.P. Puette Kevin & Janine Rinke Lanny Rominger Louis & Pauline Rupp SCI Foundation - Hunter Legacy Fund (HLF-100) Roger Segebrecht Kasie and Jason Sheridan Tim & Roxane Shinabarger Steve & Sue Skold Curt & Marcia Thompson Steve & Carrie Thompson Gray & Renée Thornton Jim Travis Tim & Ruth Van Der Weide The Estate of Robert B. Johnson Zachary Walton Wayne W. Webber The William H. Donner Foundation, Inc *New Beginnings Campaign was the FNAWS Capital Endowment Campaign conducted 1998-2003.

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SHEEP STATS

RANGE-WIDE STATUS OF BIGHORN AND THINHORN SHEEP IN NORTH AMERICA Emergency water haul in Nevada’s Muddy Mountains during the drought in August 2024.

In this installment of Sheep Stats, we’ll be covering two states—California and Nevada. This geographic area has both Rocky Mountain bighorn and desert bighorn populations. To accommodate magazine page counts some charts and graphs are not shown. Click on the QR code at left to download the complete 2025 Range-wide Status of Bighorn and Thinhorn Sheep in North America PDF.

CALIFORNIA

California is home to two subspecies of bighorn sheep located in the southeastern part of the state- the Sierra Nevada (Ovis canadensis sierrae) and desert (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) (Figure 1). The SNBS are located in the Sierra Nevada mountains and are federally listed as endangered and managed under their own Recovery Plan. Similarly, the desert bighorn located in the Peninsular Range (known as Peninsular bighorn sheep (PBS)),

20 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

east of San Diego and west of the Salton Sea, are considered a Distinct Population Segment and are federally listed as endangered and managed their own Recovery Plan. As of April 2025, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) released its Conservation and Management Plan for Bighorn Sheep in California; however, given the individual recovery plans, the statewide document focuses primarily on the nonendangered desert bighorn sheep populations.

Historically, there were also bighorn sheep located in the north-eastern portion of the state, but those populations were extirpated. There are occasionally California bighorn sheep from neighboring states seen in northern California, but these populations are not actively managed or monitored by California Department of Fish and Widllife (CDFW). For 2024, CDFW estimates there are 5,400 bighorn sheep in California, including 400 Sierra

Nevada, 750 Peninsular, and 4,250 non-endangered desert bighorn sheep. As of December 2024, CDFW has documented five primary strains of Mycoplasma ovipnuemoniae (MOVI) and eight additional strains that appear to be localized within the desert bighorn sheep populations. The SNBS populations continue to test negative for the MOVI pathogen and exposure to it and are the only population to consistently do so in the state. To date, no test and remove efforts have taken place in California.

Disease and Herd Health

This population continues to test negative for MOVI but is closely monitored and a subset of individuals are generally tested twice a year. The biggest impediments to this population’s recovery are heavy snowfall

during extreme winters, leading to avalanche- and starvation-related mortalities, and lion predation.

Desert Bighorn Sheep Populations

In 2023, California’s population was estimated at 4,500

Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep Populations

As of March 2025, the Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep Recovery Program estimates there are roughly 400 Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep including 159 adult females, 22 yearling females 101 lambs, 25 yearling males and a minimum of 89 adult males. Surveys are designed to target females and younger animals, so these categories are more accurate than the count of adult males, which often use different habitat. For this reason, the lamb:ewe ratio 101:159 is likely accurate while the ram:ewe ratio 89:159 is likely an underestimate. The Sierra bighorn population has been slowly growing since the record-breaking winter of 2023, in which we estimate 50% of females died. We are still in the process of determining presence or absence of some herds in which the collared animals died and locating small groups in the vast and complex Sierra Nevada habitat is difficult. SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 21

SHEEP STATS average of 750 individuals with a stable or increasing trend over 12 consecutive years; 3) regulatory mechanisms and land management commitments have been established that provide for long-term protection of PBS and all essential habitat. As of December 2024, a range-wide helicopter survey yielded a markresight estimate of 742 [95% CI: 656-829] adult and yearling Peninsular bighorn sheep. These results are consistent with the 2022 range-wide estimate of 745 [95% CI: 681-810]. While the overall range-wide average has maintained above 750 individuals for the last 12 years, there was a noticeable decline from 2010, although the last few years appear to have remained stable. However, there are multiple RRs that have not met the 25-ewe minimum for multiple years.

Non-endangered desert bighorn

Figure 1: Current distribution of bighorn sheep in California

desert bighorn sheep (including Peninsular bighorn sheep), a reduction from 5,000 desert bighorn sheep due to severe drought and lowered recruitment in 2021 and 2022. The drought subsided due to heavy monsoonal moisture in the summer and fall of 2022, significant to historic rainfall in the winter of 202223, widespread moisture from Hurricane Hilary in August of 2023, and continued Pacific moisture in the winter of 202324. As a result, yearling and ram counts were high across nearly all 22 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

ranges surveyed in 2024, enough to allow recovery from the drought, back to around 5,000 individuals.

Peninsular Bighorn

This Distinct Population Segment of desert bighorn sheep is managed under its own Recovery Program with nine Recovery Regions (RR) identified. The downlisting criteria requires 1) a minimum of 25 ewes present in each of the 9 RR for six consecutive years; 2) a range-wide population

California’s non-endangered desert bighorn sheep metapopulation consists of 64 herd units spread across the state’s southern mountain ranges. Historically, California’s desert bighorn sheep formed one large metapopulation. Three freeways (I-15, 40, and 10) have divided this metapopulation into five fragments, or Bighorn Conservation Units (BCU), as clearly shown by both genetic and movement data (Figure 2). Re-establishing genetic connectivity remains one of the top priorities for desert bighorn sheep program. Construction is planned to start this year on three wildlife overcrossings traversing I-15, designed specifically to benefit the species.

GERVASIO NEGRETE 2027 CONKLIN AWARD WINNER

Proud Partner of Conklin Foundation

Gervasio Negrete has shared a passion for hunting and

the outdoors since childhood, beginning with air rifle hunting around 11 years old. Over the years, that passion evolved into bow hunting, spearfishing, and eventually international big game hunting beginning in the 1980s. A proud dual citizen of Mexico and Spain, Gervasio currently lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife, Astrid Chavez. They have been married for 23 years and have three children: Malaika (17), Iker (14), and Kiana (11). Gervasio has hunted across all continents and achieved 39 different Ovis and 36 different Capra worldwide. For Gervasio, the most important part of hunting has never been simply pursuing species, but truly enjoying every step of the journey, the friendships, the adventure, and the memories created along the way. In the early 2000s, Gervasio inspired his brother Eduardo Negrete to begin hunting after years of passionately sharing stories and adventures from the field. Today, his most loyal hunting partner is his son, Iker Negrete, continuing the family tradition into the next generation.

The Conklin Foundation would like to gratefully acknowledge and thank the following businesses and individuals for their generous donations. The support of donors makes it possible for the Conklin Foundation to continue its efforts to educate youth about hunting. • Canadian High Arctic Adventures • Vidale Safaris • Lake Albert Safaris, LTD. • Link’s Wild Safaris Global • Andre Zaika • Safari Outfitters

• Iberian Hunters • Salvaforcaza • Spanish Mountain Hunts • Brilliant Stars • Baranof Jewelry • Rowland Ward Foundation

• Buena Vista Hunting • Canada North Outfitting • River Camp Morocco • Legelada Safaris • Alan & Barbara Sackman • Deron & Suzie Millman SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 23

SHEEP STATS to be assigned on an annual basis (instead of being fixed). The 2025/2026 hunt season consists of 27 general tags and three fundraising tags (Figure 3).

Disease and Herd Health

MOVI continues to pose a significant threat to desert bighorn sheep herds in California. Antibodies to the pathogen have been found in individuals from every desert bighorn sheep herd tested.

Peninsular Bighorn

Figure 2: Bighorn Conservation Units (BCUs) for the non-endangered desert bighorn populations. Please note the Northern California BCU represents historic distribution of bighorn sheep but is mostly unoccupied (Figure 1).

Non-endangered desert bighorn Per California Fish & Game Code, hunting of desert bighorn in California is limited to rams. The California Fish & Game Commission may not adopt regulations authorizing hunting in a single year of more than 15 percent of the mature rams (Class III or IV) in a single management unit. Hunts usually have 100% success rate except in the high-altitude White Mountain Hunt Zone 7. In April

24 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

2024, the California Fish and Game commission voted to adopt several new desert bighorn sheep regulation changes which will be implemented starting July 01, 2025. The main changes include splitting Zone 10 into two winter seasons to allow for more harvest while reducing the number of hunters on the landscape; adding a winter season to Zone 7; adjusting the boundary of Zone 6 to better reflect ram habitat; and allowing the Single Zone fundraising tags

The PBS populations continue to test positive for MOVI on ELISA and PCR, though the rates and distribution vary by Recovery Region and across years. The greatest risk of novel M ovi strain introduction to bighorn sheep populations is contact with domestic sheep, including those on hobby farms. In April 2024, a loose domestic ram was seen mingling with wild bighorn sheep in Recovery Region 7. Unfortunately, by the time a coordinated response could be made the domestic sheep was lost. Helicopter surveys were flown to try to find the domestic ram but were unsuccessful. Helicopter capture efforts in October collared and tested 26 animals between Recovery Regions 6-8 and resulted in zero MOVI PCR positive detections.

Non-endangered desert bighorn

Over the past decade, all ageclass die-offs have been detected in the Old Dad, San Gorgonio, and South Bristol herds. Carcasses from the Old Dad herd sampled during the die-off tested positive for MOVI carcasses

from the San Gorgonio and South Bristol herds during their respective die-offs did not test positive for MOVI; it is possible that the pneumonia in those herds was caused by a different, as-yet undetermined pathogen. The Mojave strain of MOVI indicated in the Old Dad dieoff in 2013 reached the White Mountains in 2019. Between 2020 and 2024, there was a decline in the White Mountain population

from approximately 400 to approximately 200 individuals, although 26 individuals captured in 2023 tested negative for MOVI, and that herd appears to be recovering. In 2023 the Mojave strain was also detected with high PCR positive prevalence across Death Valley National Park (80% PCR positive in the Grapevine Mountains and 50% in Tin Mountain), where similar die-offs likely

Hunt Zone and Range

Hunt Code

Zone 1 Marble/Clipper Mountains Zone 2 Old Dad/Kelso Peak Mountains Zone 3 Clark and Kingston Mountain Ranges Zone 4 Orocopia Mountains Zone 5 San Gorgonio Mountains Zone 6 Sheep Hole Mountains Zone 7 White Mountains (Period 1) Zone 7 White Mountains (Period 2) Zone 8 South Bristol Mountains Zone 9 Cady Mountains Zone 10 Newberry, Rodman, and Ord Mountains Zone 10 Newberry, Rodman, and OrdMountains (Period 1) Zone 10 Newberry, Rodman, and OrdMountains (Period 2)

501 502 503 504 505 506 507 511 508 509 510 512 513

occurred, although population estimates capable of detecting trends were not available. All of these populations have since shown recruitment capable of sustaining or growing the current populations. WS — Paige Prentice, Rick Ianniello, Danielle Glass, and Lacey Greene— California Department of Fish and Wildlife

2024 Hunter 2024 2024 Success (%) (%) Quota Quota 100 100 100 100 0 50 100 100 100 ---

1 2 3 1 0 1 4 1 2 6 ---

1 3 4 1 1 1 3 2 1 2 -4 4

Figure 3: Previous success rates from the 2024-2025 season and the number of general hunt tags offered in each hunt zone for the 2024/2025 hunt season. In total there are 27 general tags, as well as 3 special fundraising tags (Open Zone, Zone 2, and Zone 10) are offered for the 2025-2026 season

NEVADA

It is estimated based on historic explorer and naturalist records, well-documented anecdotes in early newspapers, broad paleontological data, and a geospatial analyses of bighorn sheep terrain, that Nevada’s bighorn sheep numbers prior to European settlement were 30,000 – 50,000. Historically, the entire state including both the Mojave/Great Basin Deserts and Mountains were occupied

by a single species of desert bighorn sheep (Ramey 1993, 2000; Wehausen 2000), but with different races adapted to a tremendous amount of climatic and elevation gradient. Nevada’s bighorn sheep population was at its lowest in the late 1950s at approximately 2,500 animals that primarily occupied the lower one-third of the state (see remnant polygons on map). Bighorn sheep in the entire northern half of the state

were completely extirpated because of pneumonia die-offs contracted by comingling with domestic sheep that numbered as high as 3 million in Nevada in the early 1900s. The first experimental bighorn transplants occurred in 1968, but it wasn’t until the late 1970s that bighorn translocations were successful. Through early 2025, 2,111 desert bighorn sheep were reintroduced, and 1,045 California and 326 Rocky Mountain bighorn SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 25

SHEEP STATS Regardless of distance, pathogen transmission was accelerated over the last 15-20 years for both domestic-bighorn and bighornbighorn interaction. This resulted in several metapopulation disease events with some die-offs having no known domestic sheep source, especially in the Mojave Desert. Six years after peak levels, the 2025 statewide estimate saw a minor drop from 2024 to 8,300 bighorn adults (6,300 Desert bighorn sheep and 2,000 California/Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep) (Figure 2).

Desert Bighorn Sheep Population Performance

Figure 1. Occupied bighorn sheep habitat distribution of bighorn sheep in Nevada categorized by remnant, introduced, and pioneered in Nevada.

were introduced into Nevada. Most of the transplants were highly successful with the peak statewide bighorn population estimate in 2019 at 12,500. As was planned, a great deal of herd connectivity was created with narrow valleys separating many of the mountain ranges that allow for bighorn sheep forays. 26 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Much of this connectivity was created in desert environments with no domestic sheep operations. In other areas of higher elevations and more productive habitats, a few reintroduced bighorn sheep herds were established 10-50 miles from public land domestic sheep allotments and trailing routes.

Statewide annual desert bighorn sheep lamb recruitment values that support herd recovery and growth continued to show uptrends over the last 4 years (2021 – 2024 ratios were 21, 23, 27, and 30, respectively). But these are all below the longterm lamb ratio since 1990 of 38 lambs:100 ewes. Hopefully, the statewide desert bighorn sheep estimate has ended its 6-year skid with 6,400 in 2024 to 6,300 in 2025. This estimate is a 39% decline since its peak in 2019 at 10,300. This decline was attributable to many factors including (in order of magnitude): 1) continued high lamb mortality from pneumonia in most desert bighorn sheep herds, 2) multiyear drought that ended in 2022 but still poor moisture in many areas in 2024 and early 2025, 3) lion predation on small, depressed herds has contributed to a “predator pit” state where lamb recruitment is unable to overcome losses from predation, and 4) competition at and

destruction of critical riparian/ water sources from excessive feral horses and burros.

California Bighorn Sheep

The 2023 and 2024 aerial surveys resulted in detecting the same 46 lambs:100 ewe ratio the last 2 years which should allow for limited population growth. Overgrazing and degraded riparian areas from freeroaming horses/burros and cattle, and mountain lion predation

continue to suppress population growth. The 2025 statewide California bighorn sheep population estimate is stable at 1,700 adults.

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep

Aerial and ground surveys conducted in 2024 in all 6 of the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep herds classified over 200 animals with a slightly higher lamb ratio of 65 lambs:100 ewes compared to 60 in 2023. The statewide

Figure 2. Statewide bighorn sheep population estimates by subspecies 1965 – 2025. Population estimates for 2025 are labeled on graph for each subspecies population.

Figure 3. Ram Harvest in Nevada by subspecies 1965 – 2024.

Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep population estimate is static at 330 adults.

Hunt/Harvest Metrics for All Subspecies Desert Bighorn Sheep

In the 2024 ram hunt season, there were 200 desert bighorn sheep ram tags compared to 240 in 2023. This included 175 for standard seasons, 5 archeryonly, 5 specialty, 5 management (access-limited), and 10 onehorn ram tags. Excluding the 1-horn ram hunt, there were 169 rams harvested in 2024 for 91% success of tags used. Figure 3 depicts annual ram harvest for all subspecies since 1965. Peak ram harvest was 356 in 2017 with 300 of those being desert bighorn rams. Average ram age was one of the highest on record at 7.0, but horn length and base metrics were lower than long-term averages. Only 6 rams were harvested that scored above 170 B&C pts (long-term average is 12). The previous drought years continue to impact both horn base and horn length. The last 2 years average days hunted were 6.8 and 6.6, the highest recorded, which is a combination of both difficulty of finding mature rams and enjoying the month-long hunt. The onehorn ram hunt had reduced success in 2024 with only 3 out of 8 that hunted being successful with average age of rams at 9.0. The 2024 demand for desert bighorn ram hunting continued to rise with 13,915 resident and 14,717 nonresident applicants. There was only 1 desert bighorn sheep ewe hunt with 56 hunters going afield with 73% success in the Muddy Mountains near Las Vegas. SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 27

SHEEP STATS California Bighorn Sheep

The 2024 California bighorn sheep ram season was the lowest tag quota in 20 years at 40 tags that included 1 specialty raffle tag. Hunter success was improved from 2023 at 87%, compared to long-term average of 91%. Average hunt days continued to be high at almost 9 days. Average age of harvested rams rose to 6.8, near the long-term average years over the last 20 years. The average B&C score was 152 7/8 above the long-term average. The largest ram taken scored almost 172 B&C. The previous multi-year drought continued to impact both horn base and length metrics in 2024. Demand for California bighorn sheep ram hunts continued strong with 10,113 residents and 12,851 nonresidents applying for 35 and 4 tags, respectively.

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep

Only 3 Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep ram tags were available in 2024. Two rams were taken in the Ruby Mountains during its third hunting season since the all-age dieoff in 2010. The average score of these 2 rams was only 162 compared to the previous 2 rams harvested that both scored 177. The other tagholder was unsuccessful in the South Snake Range below the Great Basin National Park.

Disease and Herd Health

Pneumonia die-offs have significantly impacted Nevada bighorn sheep herds in the last 20 years. Approximately 60 of the state’s 81 bighorn sheep herds have experienced upper

28 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

respiratory disease events. The impacts to the herds involved >15% adult loss the first year after the pathogen spillover and variable/cyclical lamb mortality lasting 1 to 18 years. It is estimated that since 2019 over 3,000 adults died of pneumonia and innumerable lambs perished that would have normally been recruited into the population. Extensive disease surveillance and post event testing has confirmed Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (MOVI) as the “trigger” pathogen involving approximately 17 different strains. Most of the pathogen spillovers over the last decade have been bighorn sheep to bighorn sheep transmission.

Test and Remove

Ongoing efforts continue with Test and Remove in the metapopulation of 2 California bighorn sheep herds - Santa Rosa Range and Snowstorm Mountains in northern Nevada. For the Santa Rosas, 127 bighorn sheep have been sampled since 2021 (90% ewes) and 15 were positive for MOVI by PCR through January 2025. For the Snowstorms, 118 animals have been sampled and tested since 2014 (68% ewes). A total of 33 were positive for MOVI by PCR. The most recent 2025 test results are surprising in that both herds had shown strong lamb recruitment in summer 2024, but new MOVI strains were detected in both herds. These new strains are “recombinations” of previous MOVI strains in the respective herds. Further consultation with geneticists and colleagues will be

made as we “pump the brakes” on this important T&R project. Plans are to closely monitor lamb recruitment in 2025 to see if the new recombination strains will affect lamb survival. This project is in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife involving an interstate herd (Santa Rosas/ Rattlesnake/Ten Mile) and part of the overall ION (Idaho/ Oregon/Nevada) Partnership supported by the Wild Sheep Foundation and affiliate bighorn sheep conservation groups in each state. A Test and Remove project was initiated in February 2024 on a desert bighorn sheep herd on Lone Mountain near the California border. This herd is a remnant “Great Basin” race that was never extirpated. It was showing exponential growth from 2000 to 2015, at which time, a ewe hunt was conducted for 4 years which lowered the population from 500 to 400 adults. Unfortunately, the herd experienced a severe pneomonia die-off starting in 2021 causing an 80% decline in the herd over the last 4 years. In 2024, 18 ewes and rams were tested with all 18 negative by PCR and 10 positive on ELISA. In January 2025, the second round of testing was conducted with 1 indeterminate and 16 negative by PCR with 14 of 17 ELISA positive. The indeterminate PCR-tested ewe was euthanized. The positive note is a 2024 lamb recruitment survey detected 26 lambs:100 ewe ratio. WS — Mike Cox, Nevada Department of Wildlife

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 29

FOR THE FULL LIST OF CRS MEMBERS SCAN ME

LIST UPDATED QUARTERLY

YOU CAN HELP WSF PUT AND KEEP WILD SHEEP ON THE MOUNTAIN BY JOINING THE CHADWICK RAM SOCIETY! In 2013 the Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF) launched a legacy campaign, Ensuring the Future of Wild Sheep, that includes tax and estate planning opportunities, counsel and advice, major gifts, and giving societies to raise the funds required to ensure the future of the wild sheep resource by directing even more dollars to wild sheep restoration, repatriation and conservation. Our vision is to build a series of funds from which a targeted annual offtake of ~4% will allow WSF to direct 100% of our convention fundraising to mission programs. Our goal is $5 to $6 million annually in mission focused Grant-In-Aid and other funding to “Put and Keep Wild Sheep on the Mountain.” With your help we can achieve this vision and goal. The Marco Polo Society was established in 2008 as WSF’s premier giving society. To compliment the Marco Polo Society and expand this giving concept to ALL WSF members and wild sheep advocates, WSF created a new giving society in the fall of 2013 – the Chadwick Ram Society with five benefactor

levels enabling tax-deductible, donor directed gifts from $250 to $5,000 per year to mission areas of the donor’s desire. Donations can be made to the WSLF Endowment Fund, WSF Conservation Fund, our annual Convention and/or Area of Greatest Need to fund specific programs and initiatives. Chadwick Ram Society members are recognized with a lapel pin displaying their Copper, Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum benefactor level. Members may also “upgrade” their benefactor levels within the Chadwick Ram Society as well as to the Marco Polo Society. For more information on the Chadwick Ram Society, Ensuring the Future of Wild Sheep campaign, or the Keep Climbing Campaign contact WSF President & CEO, Gray N. Thornton, Development Manager, Paige Culver, or visit our website. We cordially invite you to join the Chadwick Ram Society and help Ensure the Future of Wild Sheep!

The Chadwick Ram Society®, Marco Polo Society®, Putting and Keeping Wild Sheep on the Mountain®, The Sheep Show® and Sheep Week® are registered trademarks of the Wild Sheep Foundation

30 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

WSF SALUTES

THE 2026 NEW/UPGRADE CHADWICK RAM SOCIETY MEMBERS ®

CRS MEMBERS ARE LISTED IN ALPHA ORDER BY BENEFACTOR LEVEL (January 1, 2026 - Press Time)

PLATINUM - $50,000

Eyas Foundation (WY) Jeffrey & Leanne Lusk (AK)

GOLD - $25,000

Bralli & Greg Clifford (WY) Paul Greene (CO) Loren Keisling (AK) Donald Martin (CA) Greg & Marjorie Pope (WY) Adam Ratner (ID) Zachary Walton (CA) Jim & Paula Wilson (NJ)

SILVER - $10,000

Sandra Fields (FL) Joel Tavera (FL)

BRONZE - $5,000

Darren Boudreaux (LA) Jeffrey Davis (TX) Ken Jones (AK)

Jerry Herrod (AK) Elizabeth Hildreth (AK) Bryan Johnson (SD) JRP Enterprises LLC DBA Expresso Lube (WY) Andy & Stephanie Kelso (WA) Amanda Kenney (AK) Fred Kuykendall (AK) Josh Leaders (AK) Mary Mason (AZ) Bryan & Kendra McGregor (WY) Terry Mehlhaff (NV) Mike Milton (WY) Kim Nieters (WY) Jeremy & Mindy Schaad (WY) David Scott (AK) Gerry Shanahan (AK) Ryan & Adele Showalter (MD) Charles Trett (NY) Adam Uhl (IN) Tim & Pat Uhl (IN) Dominique Watts (AK) Liz Wurdinger (OR)

William (Kip) & Roxanne Kochevar (CO) Leverett & Meredith Lunceford (VA) Patrick & Shelby Mansfield (ID) Janner & Shannon Morgan (AK) Clark Olsen (AK) Henry and Amy Noss (PA) John M. Pestorich (CA) Mark Riether (NJ) Matt Riether (NJ) Paul & Shannon Schultheis (CA)

COPPER - $2,500

Doug Bennett (VA) John Bowman II (VA) Montegomery Brewer (NV) B. Joe Coy (WY) The Cuthbertson Family (WY) Clayton DeLong (ID) Nicholas & Celeste Fantanarosa (PA) Shane Gilthvedt (AK)

Sheep Family Snapshots When you invest in WSF, you are fueling one of the greatest wildlife restoration triumphs in history. Through sheer grit, translocations, and science-backed habitat work, they have helped wild sheep populations more than triple from their historic lows.

There is a unique magic found only where the air thins and the horizon opens up. To look across a windswept ridge and spot a wild ram standing on the edge of the sky is to witness the very definition of freedom. They navigate country that breaks lesser creatures, living as monuments to resilience. That is why I support the Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF)—because a world without wild sheep on the mountain is a world that has lost its edge.

My commitment, however, runs deeper than an annual membership. I am proud to actively serve as a board member with the Alaska Wild Sheep Foundation, working directly on the ground to manage and protect our local populations. By also stepping up to the national Chadwick Ram Society, I am helping lay the bedrock for the future of these iconic species on a grander scale across mountain ranges everywhere. The Chadwick Ram Society is where passion translates into immediate, tangible impact. Every dollar we commit goes directly

“back on the mountain”—funding crucial disease mitigation, securing clean water infrastructure, and protecting vital migration corridors. For me, this is ultimately about legacy. I support this mission so that the rugged, untamed spaces we love remain intact for future generations. More than anything, I want my daughters to grow up knowing the thrill of the high country, ensuring they have the same opportunity to pursue these magnificent animals across the peaks just as we do today. It is a promise to the wilderness itself, ensuring that when our children look up at the highest peaks, they will still see that majestic silhouette against the sky. —Becky Gerritsen (AK)

To Join/Upgrade contact: Morgan Stuart • 406.309.6926 • mstuart@wildsheepfoundation.org

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 31

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Keep Climbing™ Campaign: A giving vision you can ascend

PINNACLE ($500,000)

Lee & Penny Anderson (FL) Stan & Pamela Atwood (TX) G. Thomas & Patricia Lang (FL) Kevin & Janine Rinke (MI) Tim & Ruth Van Der Weide (IA)

LEGENDS ($250,000)

John & Jane Babler (MN) Oscar & Valerie Carlson (MN) Gary Romain & Jude Siddall (WA) Kip & Sue Slaugh (UT) Matt Tomseth (OR)

Keep Climbing campaign society members may direct gifts to where they feel it is needed most, consistent with our Today, Tomorrow, and Forever for Wild Sheep conservation focus. However, to ensure wild sheep conservation and the Wild Sheep Foundation succeeds in perpetuity, 33% of all Keep Climbing Society gifts will be directed to the Wild Sheep Legacy Foundation Endowment Fund.

WE INVITE YOU TO KEEP CLIMBING WITH US TO PUT AND KEEP WILD SHEEP ON THE MOUNTAIN® TODAY, TOMORROW AND FOREVER

PLEDGES ARE CURRENT AS OF 6/22/26

DIAMOND ($200,000)

Peter & Wendy Burchfield (PA) Bryan Judge (MI) Robert Hall & Jane Link (FL) Terry Rathert (TX) Mike Snider (MI) Matt Tomseth (OR)

EMERALD ($150,000)

Mike J. Borel (CA) Kevin Hurley & Connie Sturdavant (ID) Wayne & Denise Lennington (TN)

RUBY ($125,000)

Derek & Harbor Blake (AK) Scott & Jackie Callaghan (VA) Darin & Tonya Fiedeldey (OH) Zach & Amber Higgins (ID) Hank Raats (NV) David Reed (TX) Christopher Ring (TX) Mike Samson (AK) Jason Soulliere (MI)

For more information contact: Paige Culver • 406.404.8758 • pculver@wildsheepfoundation.org

ANNULI COLLECTIVE - Steven Drake

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 33

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS by Greg Schildwachter WSF Lobbyist

EXTENDING THE FAMILY

n our continuing effort to confront pneumonia as the single greatest obstacle to restoring and sustaining wild sheep, we recently engaged with researchers at Montana State University on their studies of the bacterial causes. Their work focuses on biology, transmission, and potential treatments and prevention of infection. That work is supported through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, or NIFA. Additional help from NIFA may be available to our larger strategy of laboratory-and-landscape efforts to overcome the obstacle. NIFA is not simply a grantmaking office. It is the center of a nationwide network of land-grant universities, veterinary programs, Cooperative Extension systems, and applied research partnerships designed to solve practical problems. Its scope comprises agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. Disease ecology is clearly in scope, and so is livestock health and grazing systems—and many other areas such as forestry, water quality, and invasive species. It is, therefore, a potential ally in our pro-multipleuse, partnership-driven mission. This wider reach may be helpful. Eradicating pneumonia may not be possible. The tighter containment that remains a hopeful possibility would leave significant risks in place. Virulent strains of MOVI and other pathogens will remain on the landscape as surely as the conditions of weather and habitat

34 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

that combine with bacteria to cause disease. We already know that infected wild sheep herds are now dangerous reservoirs of disease along with domestic sheep flocks. The potential of a broader effort to ease the burden is evident in other long-running wildlife-livestock disease problems. Brucellosis in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem and bovine tuberculosis in the upper Midwest both evolved into largescale management efforts involving universities, veterinarians, wildlife agencies, livestock producers, researchers, and extension specialists. Those cases differed from ours in the important respect that livestock production faced greater direct risk than wildlife. Constructive industry engagement was stronger earlier in developing solutions. Our situation is harder. Wild sheep pneumonia poses an existential challenge to restoration efforts, but far less direct economic threat to domestic sheep operations. This leaves plenty of room to disregard the problem. Frustration with that cost us a lot of time and relationships. Fear of real and potential restrictions on grazing drove active resistance. We are now at a threshold where the controversy has become almost moot. No public land agency has been able to restrict grazing meaningfully for wild sheep—however much or little they may have wanted to. Our efforts to manage disease with test and remove, or outrun it with translocations, give us plenty to do.

But we need a durable, extensive, and systematic program addressing all factors. The other cases show that practical management of persistent risk is possible. Brucellosis and bovine tuberculosis programs became systems of surveillance, diagnostics, coordinated research, veterinary capacity, extension outreach, producer engagement, wildlife monitoring, movement management, and adaptive husbandry practices. They run on the joint efforts of universities, agencies, producers, and local communities, along with sportsmen. Our path toward a fuller program runs through several other lines of effort at NIFA. We are currently benefitting from research under the agency’s animal disease programs for biology and transmission. We are beginning to explore the rest of the NIFA portfolio including disease ecology, veterinary science, extension partnerships, and applied grazing and husbandry research. New efforts begin with the people already working in the same area. We have identified a broad coalition of universities, veterinary organizations, agricultural interests, and research advocates who have been carrying the water on Capitol Hill to support NIFA programs through recent reductions in staffing and budget. From here, we intend to work with those partners to strengthen the case for NIFA’s importance by adding our wildlifelivestock challenge as another reason that NIFA is valuable to working landscapes. WS

WSF CENTURION CLUB 100+ RAMS. ONE STANDARD.

“WSF Centurion Club” for hunting, the term “Centurion” in the wild sheep community is designed for an elite hunter, guide, or outfitter who has successfully harvested 100 or more wild sheep rams under fair chase conditions. If you are a professional guide/outfitter or hunter seeking to join this 100+ elite club and milestone, please apply today.

1. WSF Membership Requirement

• Active WSF Membership: All applicants must be a Lifetime member of the Wild Sheep Foundation.

2. Professional Guide/Outfitter Qualification • Primary Guide/Outfitter Role: The applicant must have served as the primary guide/outfitter or lead guide/outfitter on the hunts, directly responsible for the client’s success and experience.

3. Experience and Success Threshold

• 100+ Successful Hunts: The core criterion is documentation of 100 or more successful guided hunts for wild sheep. A “successful hunt” is defined as a client legally and ethically harvesting a ram/sheep under fair chase conditions.

4. Peer Review and Nomination

• Letters of Recommendation: The applicant is required to provide letters of recommendation from (1) reputable outfitter, (1) fellow guide, and (1) past client who can attest to their professionalism, ethics, and extensive experience. • Review Board: A review board composed of established conservationists and experienced WSF members will verify credentials.

• Species & Location: The hunts should ideally focus on North American wild sheep (Bighorn, Dall’s, Stone’s, Desert Bighorn). • Ethical Review: All hunts must have been conducted under strict adherence to the principles of fair chase and all applicable hunting laws and regulations.

Submission Deadline: October 1, 2026 (For recognition at the January 2027 Sheep Show®). Josh Martoglio - Founder/Chairman - shoshonelodgeoutfitters@gmail.com Kim Nieters - Vice President of Operations & Auction Director 307.899.4134 - knieters@wildsheepfoundation.org

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 35

AWARDS by Dave Turchanski Chair, Ram Awards Committee

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

ith summer quickly upon us, the Awards Committee has the wheels in motion for the Awards Luncheon at Wild Sheep’s 50th Anniversary convention in Reno 2027. Our 2026 Awards Luncheon was the best yet, but we are working hard on plans to make it even better in 2027. As I put together this message, we are only 64 days away from August 1 and opening day of sheep season here in British Columbia (49 days away from the opener for those in the Yukon and NWT). For those of you that have a sheep hunt booked this fall— good luck out there. Whether it’s your first sheep, your first FNAWS-completion ram, or to complete another FNAWS, I wish you all the best in harvesting the ram of your dreams. For the International Hunters of the World, good luck out there as Ovis and Capra seasons are well under way or have alreadyconcluded. With the 50th Anniversary for Wild Sheep we are looking forward to the best Ram Awards Luncheon yet. Last year, we had approximately 650 people in attendance, and this year we are looking for more. This is a reminder to all members: Please get your trophies entered no later than November 1, 2026, to qualify for the 2027 awards program. Animals from the past two years (North America) and past three years (Mountain Monarchs) are eligible for the awards (if you have not already entered them). As a reminder, to qualify for the awards, 36 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

all animals must be completely free-range. To qualify for submission into the Ram Awards, all North American wild sheep and Rocky Mountain goat entries must include an official score from a B&C or P&Y measurer. For our Mountain Monarch international awards program, entries must include a completed SCI scorechart. Once again, we Harold Alexander will be handing FIRST FNAWS out buckles for the top sheep and goat awards, as well as the new and improved plaques and updated Ram Awards Booklet. We will have keepsakes for everyone attending the awards this year along with additional advertising that we will be doing in Wild Sheep Magazine prior to the 2027 Convention. Please be sure to mark February 4 on your calendars to attend the awards luncheon. I would especially like to take this time to thank our sponsors who were so generous and helped make the Ram Awards a big success—Boone and Crockett Club, Terminus Mountain Outfitters, Hunting Wild Turkey and Asia, and Safari Club International (just to name a few of our early sponsors). For those of you who are interested in becoming a sponsor,

2027 FNAWS RECIPIENTS

Beginning with this issue, we’ll be listing the members who have completed their FNAWS and will be recognized at the 2027 Awards luncheon. This first installment includes FNAWS that have been awarded from December 2025 – April 2026. Listed alphabetically, not a complete list. These members will be recognized at the Ram Awards Lunch scheduled for Thursday, February 4, in Reno, Nevada, at the 2027 Sheep Show®. To qualify for a FNAWS a WSF member must have legally and ethically harvested all four North American sheep in a free-range environment. Each sheep harvested must be recorded with WSF using the WSF Hunt Report Form and include a photograph, preferably a field photo. No official score chart is required for a FNAWS ram. Scan the QR code for details about submitting your FNAWS rams.

please reach out to Julie Tripp, myself or any of the committee members and we would be more than willing to accommodate with sponsorship opportunities. In closing, good luck to everyone hunting this fall no matter what you’re after—dreams do come true with hard work and determination! I look forward to seeing everyone in Reno in 2027. WS

2027 FNAWS RECIPIENTS ANGEL EDGAR

SECOND FNAWS

MATTHEW “SKIP” HALMES FIRST FNAWS

DANIEL BAUGHER FIRST FNAWS

BRIAN BAILEY

FIRST FNAWS

DERYK KUNY

FIRST FNAWS

BOB MAYS

KURT HANSEY

THIRD FNAWS

FIRST FNAWS

JIM HOFFMAN

THIRD FNAWS

ROBERT ROBINSON FIRST FNAWS

GREG STONE

FIRST FNAWS

MARK NUCCI

FIRST FNAWS

DONALD THOMPSON FIRST FNAWS

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 37

You’ve Fought for Wild Sheep in Your Lifetime.

Will You Protect Them Beyond It?

38 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

You’ve climbed the mountains. You’ve supported conservation. You’ve stood shoulder-to-shoulder with others who believe wild sheep belong on the landscape—not just in history books.

What happens to that commitment someday? A planned gift to the Wild Sheep Foundation is one of the most powerful conservation tools you will ever use. And it may be far simpler than you think. No complex strategies. No impact on your current financial security. Just a decision that ensures wild sheep and wild places endure. Let’s have a confidential, no-pressure conversation about what makes sense for you and your family.

Visit WSFLegacy.org Or contact us today: Gordon L. Nelson, CPA, CFP® giftplanning@wildsheepfoundation.org 435-213-9986

ERIC ARCE

“Monarch is the culmination of my thirty years of blood, sweat, and tears in the taxidermy and hunting industries. I have brought together what I believe is the most well-rounded taxidermy team in the country. We have several taxidermy specialists under one roof, allowing us to be a one-stop shop for the traveling hunter. We are USDA approved, experienced with import and export, and have knowledge of every huntable species the world over.”

Stuart Farnsworth President / Taxidermist / Sculptor

www.monarchtaxidermyinc.com

(406) 449-2991

Helena, Montana

@monarchtaxidermy

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 39

MARCO

POLO BY PEDRO DE AMPUERO PHOTOS: FONTALONSO MEDIA AND SLOTSMEDIA

40 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

wish I knew then what I know now. It would have changed everything. But most likely, without everything that happened, I would have never pushed myself to go one step further. As we kept climbing higher, I peeked over my bow riser to read a note my wife had written there: “Never more prepared than today. Love you. Victoria.” We all organize hunts for different reasons. For some, it’s about collecting species. For others, discovering new places and countries, disconnecting from everyday life, spending time with friends and family, chasing adventure, or maybe even recognition. A bit of all that is probably involved in my planning too, but the thing that truly excites

me, the thing that keeps me awake at night, is trying to challenge myself to do something I’m not sure I’ll be able to accomplish. Back in 2022, driving along the Issyk-Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan, I could already feel the excitement of the adventure ahead. Trying to hunt a Marco Polo sheep with a bow was the biggest challenge I had ever attempted, and my stomach was tight, partly from the elevation of the road, but most likely from the fear of not being able to pull it off. A last-minute change of plans landed us in a camp that wasn’t unfamiliar to me. I had actually been there before, back in 2010. That trip was probably the worst hunt I’ve ever experienced, and the only one I’ve ever left early because of the disgusting poaching

activities of the guides. Among other things, they offered me the chance to shoot a Marco Polo for free, just to take a photo with it afterward. My answer was clear. If I didn’t have the means to properly afford the most beautiful sheep on the planet, I wasn’t going to shoot it just for a picture and leave it there. Animals deserve far better than that. The guide got furious, grabbed my rifle, and fired into the middle of a group of Marco Polos, killing a young ram to prove...I’m still not sure what. At that moment, I jumped on my horse and rode back alone, promising myself I would never return. But time has a way of softening things, and ten years later I decided to come back, this time with a sheep tag in my pocket. What I

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 41

definitely wasn’t expecting was that, in a country this big, I would end up in the exact same camp under the same manager from 2010, bringing back to life a lot of memories I thought I had buried. The name Marco Polo comes from the Venetian explorer and writer who traveled the Silk Road more than 700 years ago. In his writings, he described sightings of wild sheep with massive horns roaming these high valleys. These argali can be found in both Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan,

A traditional nomadic yurt that also served as our base camp.

The terrain is so vast that carrying the bow often feels pointless.

42 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

At this elevation, even the horses struggle to survive.

with several different subspecies. We were actually hunting near the Naryn River, the boundary between two of them: the Tian Shan argali and the Pamir. Depending on the day and whether we crossed the river with the horses, we would technically be hunting one or the other, so for simplicity I’ll refer to all of them as Marco Polo. The reason I chose Kyrgyzstan was mainly because of the style of hunting. For me, that matters more than the species itself. Here, hunts are typically done on horseback, sleeping in fly camps or small huts high in the mountains, and that is exactly the kind of adventure that excites me. A true mountain hunt. I’m used to bowhunting in places where people have never seen a bow before, so it didn’t surprise me that it took several days to get the team and the hunting system dialed in. Normally, I let guides hunt their way at first and slowly make suggestions when things aren’t working. I started the hunt with a translator, a cook, a game officer, three guides, and another man handling the horses. Add my cameraman and myself to that and imagine the amount of noise and movement involved. For stalking, they always tried to have several guides physically lead

you by the hand. They believed pushing or driving animals was the best tactic. But after several days, I managed to trim the team down to only two guides. I didn’t need a translator or a cook, and eventually I gained their trust enough for them to allow me to do the final stalks by myself. One of the biggest challenges here compared to other mountain game we’ve hunted with a bow is that, unlike ibex and other Capra species, sheep live in much more open and rolling country. During the rut, groups can range anywhere from twenty to over a hundred animals, and among all of them only a few are mature rams. You need to get close to a huge group, identify the old ram, range the distance, adjust the sight, wait for the perfect broadside angle, and execute a very long and technical shot under enormous pressure. On top of that, you’re trying to capture everything on video. To be honest, I didn’t fully understand the magnitude of the challenge until we had spent an entire week there without a single opportunity. Finally, after seven days, we located a group of rams in what looked like a “stalkable” position. My cameraman and I slipped down the mountain and got as close as possible using the almost SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 43

Gaining elevation to hunt from above gives us our best chance.

nonexistent vegetation for cover. When one of the rams stood up from its bed, we couldn’t move any closer. I ranged the distance, adjusted the sight, drew back, and took a deep breath. It was an extremely long shot, but I felt confident. The moment I released, I knew my dream was over. I heard the string hit one of my jackets and saw the arrow fishtailing as it left the bow. At long distances, losing just a little speed is enough to completely miss an animal, and that’s exactly what happened. We hunted hard but didn’t get another opportunity until day eleven. It took us the entire day to get within range of two rams, and as the sun was setting and my hands were freezing, I took another very long shot. This time, the arrow flew right over the ram’s back. The pressure of trying to shoot a ram on the last evening of the 44 WILD S HEEP ~ SUMMER 2026 ®

final day after eleven days of grinding through the mountains was enormous. Honestly, making it happen would almost have felt too good to be true. I had opportunities, but I couldn’t close the deal. I was deeply disappointed, but at the same time we had proven that our dream was possible. And if there’s one thing we are truly good at, it’s not giving up. So I flew back home for a couple of weeks to reset, recover, and figure out how to properly shoot at extreme elevations. I genuinely believe that was part of the problem. On shots beyond 100 yards, the difference in air density between sea level back home and 13,000 feet in Kyrgyzstan is massive. Despite re-sighting the bow in camp and trying several adjustments, I still hadn’t figured out the solution.

The horses can only take us so far.

I was there because I love the challenge of stalking difficult animals and spending time in the mountains. That’s why I chose a bow, and I wasn’t going to change that. Right before the season ended, at the end of November that same year, I returned for a second attempt. I was hopeful because we had learned a lot during the first trip, but when I arrived and discovered the outfitter had changed all my guides and even my hunting area, I knew we weren’t off to a good start. All the work from the previous trip went down the drain. We had to start from zero again. Things started falling apart almost immediately. After only one day, the main guide quit. He kept insisting that I should use a rifle, and I think the hunting industry has become such a business that some guides

no longer understand that I wasn’t there simply to bring home a trophy. I was there because I love the challenge of stalking difficult animals and spending time in the mountains. That’s why I chose a bow, and I wasn’t going to change that. I understand that bowhunters are probably not the most profitable clients for an outfitter, but they knew from the beginning that I was committed to taking one with a bow or not taking one at all. One problem led to the next. They used our ibex permit, nobody wanted to guide us, our guides abandoned us while returning to camp, and to top it all off, my

cameraman Lewis developed severe pulmonary edema due to the high elevation and could barely breathe. I tried my best to hunt and document everything myself, but it just wasn’t happening. My head was in too many places at once, and there was so much going on that I stopped enjoying the peace and freedom these mountain hunts usually give me. For the second time, I flew back home empty handed. It took me three years to recover the desire to return to Kyrgyzstan. After traveling all over the world, the two worst experiences I had ever had both came from the same

Moving spike camp to the next valley is never an easy process.

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 45

place. I knew I still wanted to make it happen, but I wasn’t ready to go through another hunt full of problems and arguments. I simply wanted to hunt. Last year, I convinced my friend Alexey Podtyazhkin from Club Ibex to return with me and organize a hunt in a completely different area and local outfitter, somewhere the guides would actually be excited to have me there. I had battled alongside Alexey in some very difficult places before, and having someone beside you who understands hunting the same way you do, someone willing to push through hardship together, makes a massive difference. The only thing I knew for certain before this third attempt was that I had to solve the issue of shooting at extreme elevations. Getting within bow range of a Marco Polo is incredibly difficult. You might work for ten days for a single opportunity. Drawing back and simply hoping for luck was no longer acceptable. The previous failures had stayed with me for all three years, and I went deep into researching solutions. I spoke with some of the best shooters in the world, trained with elite archery coaches, and disappeared down the rabbit hole of air density ballistics. Finally, with the help of Leupold and Precision Cut Archery, we managed to integrate those calculations into a rangefinder prototype. The first unit arrived the week before the trip. We tested it. We were ready. The new area was much drier and had very little snow, which helped tremendously for bow 46 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

After so many days, I could hardly believe we finally had an animal down.

When you hunt with the right people, everything becomes a little easier.

A herd of Marco Polo rams watches us from above as we admire the view.

Heading back to camp with the ibex proved bowhunting was never a waste of time.

stalks. The density of sheep was incredible, but most of the groups contained over a hundred animals. We were making stalks on rams almost every other day, but the final opportunity never quite came together. The team was amazing, but I could feel everyone slowly getting more tired as the days passed. Energy begins to disappear little by little on these hunts. Luckily, after a week we had the opportunity to stalk a group of ibex, and I was able to make a perfect shot on a very old billy. That changed the mood of the entire team. They saw firsthand that the bow could kill cleanly, and that I could shoot it accurately. Right when I thought we were about to lose their confidence, everything changed. This was now the twenty ninth day of hunting across all three trips. That inner voice starts talking to you, the one that says you’ll never make it happen. The only way to silence it is with a

louder voice. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that motivation comes and goes on hunts. Discipline is what matters. You hike even when you’re exhausted. You glass even when you think there’s nothing there. You hunt properly even when you don’t feel like it, because eventually things happen. But you cannot become lazy, because mood is contagious in the mountains. We located a group in a decent area, climbed to the top, and worked our way down above them until we got as close as possible. It was a massive group, some sheep standing, others bedded. Among all the mature rams, one stood above the rest. White. Old. Broomed. The ram I had dreamed about my entire life. The shot was farther than I would have ever wanted, but still within the distances I had practiced for. We are a team, and there are always risks involved, so I looked at the others. SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 47

An old ram, taken spot-and-stalk with a bow after an unforgettable effort.

Roberto, my cameraman, said: “If there’s anyone who can do it, it’s you.” Alexey nodded. “You’ve got this.” I read the note on my riser one more time, adjusted the sight, and drew back for the most important arrow of my life. Twenty-five years of bowhunting had led to this moment, and I could feel the pressure sitting on my shoulders. As the arrow disappeared into the air, I lost sight of it, but then I heard the impact, quickly followed by everyone shouting: 48 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

“Good shot! Good shot!” I couldn’t believe that we might have finally closed one of the most important chapters of my life. I was still so skeptical that when we reached the ram, I could see him lying there but couldn’t fully confirm he was dead because his head was behind some rocks. I sent a follow up arrow. No movement. Then another. And another. As I grabbed my sixth arrow, my cameraman stopped me and said: “Pedro, the Marco Polo is dead.

We made it. It’s over. We made it.” I couldn’t believe those words. After twenty-nine days hunting these mountains across three separate trips, the Marco Polo was finally down. Dreaming is free, but turning dreams into reality comes at a very high cost. I have never worked so hard for an animal in my life, and I probably never will again. Looking back, I’m grateful it happened this way, because it forced me to become a better hunter and a better archer, something I would

One last look at the mountains that demanded everything and gave us even more.

have never achieved without carrying those years of failure on my shoulders. This hunt transformed me in many ways, and once again proved to me that the greatest skill a hunter can possess is relentlessness. And for that, the best tool is truly loving time spent in the mountains. Thank you to everyone who follows these journeys and supports my crazy adventures. None of this would have been possible without you. WS

SCAN HERE TO WATCH A FILM OF THE HUNT.

An incredible team and outstanding outfit where success is never a coincidence.

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 49

THE ATCHESON

IBEX BRIEFING:

MAPPING OUT YOUR NEXT MOUNTAIN HUNT BY JACK ATCHESON

50 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

n my last article for WSF magazine, I shared several of my own ibex hunting experiences. This Ibex Briefing takes a broader view, offering a practical guide to planning and pricing an ibex adventure across Europe and Asia. Ibex and wild goats belong to the Caprinae subfamily, I will refer to them as ibex in the following. In North America, Caprinae species include Bighorn sheep, Desert sheep, Dall’s sheep, Stone’s sheep, Rocky Mountain Goats, and Musk ox. Across Europe and Asia, however, the Caprinae list grows much longer. Here, I focus on the ibex and wild goats that combine world-class horn potential and surprisingly strong value for mountain hunters. For hunters considering their first overseas Caprinae hunt—or weighing the next one—there are a few practical guidelines worth keeping in mind before narrowing the field.

Understanding the Cost Factors

As in any sought-after hunting market, supply and demand go a long way toward setting the price of access. Several key variables tend to shape the final cost of an ibex hunt:

Factor One: Auction permits and trophy pricing. In the most soughtafter destinations, auctions often establish the starting price point of a hunt.

In some areas, the CIC licensing scoring formula determines the score fee for an ibex. It considers the circumference at the base. and the length of the two horns, but the measurements are taken in centimeters and are usually recorded in centimeters by local game officials at the harvest site. Most hunters are targeting mature males—often eight years old or better—and horn length and base measurements are typically classified into bronze, silver, or gold categories. Simply put, bigger animals bring bigger fees in auction or CIC licensing. In much of Europe, especially on state land, annual auctions largely determine permit values. Private-land hunts in the same regions tend to follow those numbers closely, though they can occasionally come in a bit lower. This auction-driven model is common in ibex-rich Spain and Turkey, and it also appears in destinations such as Mongolia and Pakistan. In general, countries using auction permits tend to run higher hunt costs than those that do not. Non-auction systems are more common across Central Asia, especially in countries such as Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. These destinations often avoid both auction pricing and complicated point-based trophy structures, which is one reason they have earned a reputation as the true “cheap dates” of the ibex world. Even so, most ibex and wild goat hunts abroad still compare

favorably with the cost of North American Caprinae hunts. For anyone thinking about an overseas mountain hunt, that alone is a persuasive reason to make sure the passport is current and the planning has begun.

Factor Two: Prime areas versus standard areas. As with most hunting, the best country and the best ground within that country usually command a premium. Whether on state land or private concessions, prime areas generally hold more game and produce a stronger class of mature males. Factor Three: VAT—or no VAT.

One expense many hunters fail to factor in is VAT (value-added tax), or the local equivalent of sales tax. In Europe, which added charge can increase the gross trip cost by 20 to 25 percent. Central Asian countries, along with Mongolia and Pakistan, generally do not apply VAT in the same way, and that can make a meaningful difference by the time the final bill is settled.

Factor Four: Friends-and-family discounts. A hunter traveling alone can still put together an excellent trip, but the economics often improve with a small group. Add two to four hunters, and the savings per person can sometimes be enough to offset a round-trip airline ticket from home to camp.

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 51

What These Hunts Look Like on the Ground

Spain offers four ibex forms— Gredos, Beceite, Southeastern, and Ronda—and for many hunters, collecting all four is a long-range goal, but many take all four in about two weeks. Hunts are typically structured as three days per ibex (this is how long the permit is valid to hunt), with seasons generally running from October through May. Add in excellent accommodations and food, and Spain has long been an appealing option for hunters traveling with non-hunting companions as well. Spain is the #1 tourist destination in Europe. Now days, my “cheap date” recommendation for a

single hunter is a bronze-class Gredos ibex at $17,700 US, including a three-day hunt, top accommodations, food and drink, VAT, licenses, and permits. For a friends-and-family trip in Spain, the Southeastern ibex is hard to overlook. These hunts offer expansive ground, good tag availability, and terrain that can accommodate hunters across a wide range of ages and physical abilities. A standard trip runs five days, including travel on Days 1 and 5. For a group of four hunters, a bronze-class animal up to 190 CIC points, with top accommodations, food and drink, VAT, licenses, and permits, is currently priced at 14,500 US per hunter. Austria for Alpine Ibex: This is

Mid-Asian ibex running along a rocky mountain side in Kyrgyzstan. Photo: iStockPhoto.com / Oleg Elagi

52 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

one of the rarer ibex species but are abundant in special private properties in Austria and they are hunted in two separate time periods. August 1-31 (summer weather) or October1- November 30 (prewinter conditions). The hunts are two days long and the CIC size-to-final-costs equation apply. Costs are explained in the following manner: an 8–10-yearold ibex will carry rather heavy horns the full length and average about 21-24 inches in horn length on each horn and a base circumference is around 10 inches, per base equaling around 68 inches of total horn mass. The CIC score is always in centimeters—68 inches is approximately 175 centimeters in horn mass.

Among other factors to consider, ibex are CITIES 2 species which means there is a pre-established quota on how many ibex can be exported from the host country to another country.

Alpine ibex hunt costs for twoday hunt: One ibex male with up to 175 centimeters of mass—$26,000 if the horn mass exceeds 175 CIC point, add approximately $750 per centimeter of horn. The CIC game representative can estimate the size rather closely before you take the shot, but CIC larger horns can add dollars to the final cost. Turkey offers three ibex

categories: Bezoar ibex, hybrid Bezoar, and coastal Bezoar ibex. Roughly 70 areas in the country hold huntable Bezoar populations. A typical itinerary runs nine days, with seven full hunting days, and each hunter is paired with an English-speaking guide throughout the trip. November to January are prime months, though March can also be excellent during

the first green-up, when mature males often key in on fresh feed. With solid accommodations, food and drink, VAT, licenses, and permits included, Turkey remains a compelling option. For hunters looking at overall value, the “cheap date” choice is usually found in the two- to three-hunter rates listed on page 56.

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 53

G REE NL A N D

ICELAND

MUSK OX n G re en la n d J ac k A tc h es on FINLAND NORWAY

SWEDEN

ESTONIA LATVIA

DENMARK

IRELAND

UNITED KINGDOM

LITHUANIA

NETHERLANDS

BELGIUM

FRANCE

GERMANY CZECH REPUBLIC

AU ST R I A

SWITZERLAND SLOVENIA

BECEITE IBEX n Spain Denise Hoffman

PORTUGAL

BELARUS

POLAND

ITALY

S PAI N

UKRAINE SLOVAKIA

ALPINE IBEXMOLDAVA n Austria HUNGARY Chris Dianda

CROATIA BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINIA MONTENEGRO

ROMANIA SERBIA BULGARIA N. MACEDONIA

ALBANIA GREECE

T U RKE Y

RONDA IBEX n Spain Marcus Gores

GREDOS IBEX n Spain Marc Rue

54 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

SOUTH EASTE RN IBE B il l T it t le X

n Spai

THE ATCHESON IBEX BRIEFING

MAPPING OUT YOUR NEXT MOUNTAIN HUNT RUSSIA

ALTAI IBEX n Mongolia Larysa Switlyk

K AZ A K H STA N

BEZOAR n Turkey Lyle Wood

M O NGO L IA

U ZBEK I S TAN K Y R GY Z STA N

GEORGIA ARMENIA

TURKMENISTAN

AZERBAIJAN

IRAN

CHINA

TA J I K I STA N

AFGHANISTAN

MID-A S B e n S IAN IBEX n Kyr allera gyzsta s

PA K I STA N INDIA

SINDH n Pakistan Allyn Ladd MID-ASIAN IBEX n Tajikistan Daryll Hosker SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 55

Ancient petroglyphs of animals on rock on Saimaluu Tash site in Kyrgyzstan. Photo: iStockPhoto.com / MisoKniti

Privately guided:

$22,500, any size • 1 guide x 2 hunters (each): $21,000, any size • 1 guide x 3 hunters (each): $19,000, any size

For the collector, hybrid Bezoar ibex are a cross between the Bezoar ibex and the domestic goat, though these animals have lived wild for ages. It is an easier hunt that typically lasts only one or two days. Because tags are extremely limited—as few as two and as many as five or six in some years— the price reflects that scarcity. Our current price is $29,500, though it can change in years when the government issues only 2 tags. 56 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Coastal Bezoar ibex:

There is a small pocket of Bezoar population in the southern part of the country that resembles the Kri-Kri ibex. These animals are smaller in both body and horn size compared to the standard Bezoar. With limited permits available in this first year, the price is $46,500. Pakistan has some of the most well-organized hunting trips of any Eurasian country—their program started back in the mid-1980s and has refined to the highest level. It’s a long season from October to March. Pakistan is a huge country and a lot of on-ground travel via jeep is needed to get you from local airports to hunting destinations, so you get a great tour of Pakistan while heading to camp.

Local villagers are one of the key beneficiaries of the hunting dollars generated on a on a ibex hunt and the support from the villagers too the hunters is at the highest level possible, you are treated like a god! The number of days traveling to and from the hunting areas is often as much as the time spent hunting. Obtaining visas for Pakistan requires some advanced planning—this is not a destination that can be quickly put together. As a rule, you can bring your own firearms, or local firearms are available for hire for the most part. The Sind ibex hunting is at lower altitudes, but Himalayan ibex do reach lofty heights and often require a little extra time to wait out a severe weather day or two.

The hunters will often combine species, Himalayan ibex and Blue sheep are a good combo, or the Sind ibex, Blandford and Punjab urial are a natural combo.

Sind ibex Privately guided:

$22,900 up to 39 inches, which is a genuinely nice representative size, plus $1,000 per inch over 39 inches. • 1 guide x 2 hunters (each): $20,800, plus $1,000 per inch over 39 inches • 1 guide x 3 hunters (each): $19,500, plus $1,000 per inch over 39 inches

Himalayan ibex Privately guided:

$18,600, any size • 1 guide x 2 hunters (each): $17,500, any size • 1 guide x 3 hunters (each): $16,200, any size

Mongolia has been offering hunting trips since the late 1960s and are very polished in services. There are two ibex species, the Altai and Gobi ibex. Typically, these are three-to-four-day hunts per species with a day’s travel in between hunting areas if you plan to do a combo. Hunting season

opens July 15th and closes October 15th and there is good hunting at any period, but longer fur is found on the ibex from September 1st onward. For the most part, these ibex are easier to hunt than many other ibex as there are pockets of rough ibex habitat that can be reached easily by a Jeep, then day hunts on foot or perhaps by horseback in some cases. The local hunting camp is the traditional yurt—a heavy felt or canvas outer layer with surprisingly ornate interiors. These are arguably the best tent design ever devised! Ibex can be combined with our several species of Argali, Siberian Roebuck

An Altai ibex in Mongolia. Photo: Larysa Switkyk

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 57

Yes, Musk ox are a Caprinae species. or Maral stag—a look-alike of a North American elk! Mongolian. ibex are on a auction-based permitting system so they tend to be a little more expensive than Central Asia, but there is no sales tax which saves considerable. If you’re looking for one of the most moderately priced and physically easier ibex hunts, then Mongolia should be a primary consideration.

Altai ibex 3-5 daysPrivate guide:

$18,000 • Gobi Ibex 3-5 days Private guide $16,000 • Combo Altai/Gob Ibex- 8-10 days $32,000

The absolute best ibex deals!

Hunting in Central Asia is impossible to beat price wise! Central Asia hunting countries like Uzbekistan Kyrgyzstan Kazakhstan and Tajikistan have similar hunting conditions. Expect generally higher altitude—over 10,000 feet in many cases—based from mountain hunting huts or tents. On some occasions, horses can often be used in some areas, but others require hunting on foot. The hunting season is long, in most cases starting in August, and in some regions, extending clear to March. There is a combination of outfitting types. It can be a standard commercial outfitter with a large expanse of hunting concession, or it can be a small village that has created a sustainable use hunting program around their grazing territories. These often have fast rotation grazing programs. The local people have their own anti-poaching team and zealously guard their animals as they are near and dear to their financial well-being. In either case, the ibex populations are managed

58 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

remarkably well and ibex in these areas will have horns an average age of around eight years or older, and in many cases, carry horns around 40 inches to 45 inches— and in some cases—even exceeding 50 inches. These are some of the largest ibex in the world.

Mid Asian ibex (Uzbekistan) 7-10 days Private guide:

$11,800, any size • 1 guide x 2 hunters: $11,200 per hunter, any size • 1 guide x 3 hunters: $10,400 per hunter, any size • 1 guide x 4 hunters: $9,900, any size

Mid Asian ibex (Kyrgyzstan) Privately guided:

$12,800, any size • 1 guide x 2 hunters (each): $11,100, any size • 1 guide x 3 hunters (each): $10,500, any size • 1 guide x 4 hunters (each): $9,900, any size

Tajikistan for Tien Shan ibex Privately guided:

$12,800, any size • 1 guide x 2 hunters (each): $11,100any size • guide x 3 hunters (each): $10,500any size • 1 guide x 4 hunters (each): $9,900any size

Tajikistan Bukaran ibex: private guide $16,000any size Kazakhstan Privately guided:

$12,800, any size • 1 guide x 2 hunters (each): $11,100, any size • 1 guide x 3 hunters (each): $10,500, any size • 1 guide x 4 hunters (each): $9,900, any size

Musk ox in Greenland:

Yes, musk ox are a caprinae species. Greenland is a top destination for the Greenland musk ox species. You hunt for a week with local Greenland outfitters and can hunt March to April via snow machine from heated cabins, or do the fall hunt in August to October and include reindeer with the musk ox. Depending on the area hunted, you could hunt from cabins or tents using power boats, rafts or ATV. Catch an arctic char while you are at it. A great hunt for a single hunter or groups of three to four hunters.

Costs - musk ox only:

• $12,000 and a reindeer in Aug to Oct $4,000 per reindeer.

Among other factors to consider, ibex are CITES 2 species which means there is a pre-established quota on how many ibex can be exported from the host country to another country. CITES permits are often not available for immediate export of the trophy and often the animal must be shipped later on. Inquire in advance if expedited CITES permitting can be accommodated. An average ibex air excessive baggage fee for immediate shipping can be $500 to $700 in fees, and you would have a green-salted hide to consider. Delayed handling and air freight can run closer to $1500 per species, but the skin is dried hard and less worrying. Talk to your taxidermist about importing your ibex trophy and how they would like it shipped. WS

hat is it that is so special about mountain hunting? Why do we subject ourselves to the rigors, the exhaustion, the biting wind, the deep freeze, the predator dangers and the sheer physical demands of it all? Why are we drawn to such unforgiving terrain, places where mistakes are costly, where game is scarce, and where the hunter is always a visitor and never truly in control? These are questions that have long occupied my mind. And although I may never have a single answer, the pursuit of that understanding is part of what keeps me returning to the mountains. For many of us, our hunting journey begins in our childhood,

most probably introduced to us through family members and at times through friends. We generally start with small game, chasing birds or rabbits and typically accompanied by our peers. These experiences teach us patience, awareness, respect for life, and the importance of earning our success. As we grow older and our physical capabilities expand, so will our ambitions. We typically graduate to big game, sometimes driven by the desire for putting meat into the freezer and sometimes for bagging a trophy, but more often, for the sheer challenge. However, for a particular breed of hunters—those with a love for high places—the

call of the mountains becomes irresistible. Whether their backgrounds involve climbing, skiing, scrambling, or alpinism, the marriage between hunting and mountaineering becomes inevitable. Let’s be honest; the raw appeal of mountain sheep and goat hunting is not just in the animal itself, but in the arduous process of reaching them and penetrating their comfort zone. The late Jack O’Connor romanticized this phenomenon on several of his books and articles. In this sense, mountain hunting becomes not just an evolution of a skill, but a transformation of the soul. As we mature, our motivations also evolve. It is no longer about simply filling a tag or claiming a SUMMER 2026to ~W ILD S HEEP trophy. We begin question as® 59

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A Gentleman’s First Sheep Hunt, His .375 Rigby, & His Bible BY JONATHAN WRIGHT, ESQ.

Jonathan Wright admiring breathtaking views on top of a mountain, and his Rigby .375 Holland & Holland. 62 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

raig Boddington wrote that he “took [his] first wild sheep in 1973 with a .375 H&H,” and that he “[would not even] try to justify that one!” Upon reading those words, I knew that I would take my first wild sheep with not only a .375 H&H, but with a .375 H&H Rigby Big Game. I had my reasons, but in short, I wanted his story to be a [confirmed] footnote in my own. And so it went. In January 2025, I received a Monday morning call from Werner A./Sunny P., the owners of South Nahanni Outfitters, that there had

been a cancellation and if I wanted the August 2025 (same year) slot, that I would have to place the down payment ASAP. Without hesitation, or wife’s permission, the trip was set for a nine-day hunt in the NWT’s Mackenzie Mountains. And so, I was staring down a timeline of 7-8 months to prepare for the trip. Preparation included not only gear accumulation, but also whittling down my 288 lb. frame to something mountain worthy: I joined a gym, ate whole foods (e.g., eggs, chicken, turkey, avocado, fish, fruit, and more

eggs) for the next many months, lifted heavy packs up and down my stairs within the home and outside, and got the frame down to a serviceable (and muscular, as I like to remind my wife) 260 lbs. by the time of the trip. When I arrived in the Yukon, I let one of the guides (whom I would later discovered as legendary, Brent Sinclair) know that despite my size, “I can move.” And while I could, during the walks through the town of Whitehorse, Yukon, I could barely keep up with him. Same with the other hunters who walked

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 63

The author carefully negotiating backside of a steep Mackenzie Mountain en route to taking his first sheep on day 5. 64 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

town with Brent as we were severely delayed waiting for weather to clear for us to fly from Whitehorse into South Nahanni’s NWT basecamp. We would often say, “Whoever gets paired up with that guy, is in for it.” Brent moved through the town like a caribou on a mission—long strides, effortlessly and without pause, except for the stop lights which generously allowed us to catch up to him. When we arrived at basecamp (NWT), someone (a now good buddy of mine) kept calling me “Big Jon,” which I at first thought was a slight sleight, but confirmed was not when I overheard my new buddy once talking to his best friend Josh, whose phone call started with a “Big Josh!.” I then knew it was an affectionate naming; and so, thought nothing of it. This did not, however, prohibit the name from sticking at camp, as I would later notice one of Werner’s guide/ hunter notes written down on a piece of paper in the canteen: Hunter 1 – Kish Hunter 2 – Milan Hunter 3 – Tom Hunter 4 – Warren Hunter 5 (“Big Jon”) – Brent. I could not believe it: careful what you wish for. After the weather cleared, we arrived at basecamp via the sixperson Cessna plane, in which I sat in the front next to the pilot. That was quite the experience, whereby one of the other hunters had to hold my gun which was wrapped inside the cotton, navy blue signature “Rigby” soft case. Once we arrived at camp, the gentleman holding my gun, said with his thick Arkansas accent, “I need to see what’s inside this package: I’ve been thinking about it the entire trip.” I then rather sheepishly showed off my Rigby .375, which received a few nods from the fellow hunters and notably the guides who saw us arrive, coupled with a few remarks from the latter group

Another phrase on repeat I adopted early, but a phrase from me to me aloud, was “one foot at a time… because two will kill you.” along the lines of “what are you going to shoot with that thing – a moose or a buffalo?” But I’d had my reasons, and they were not all ego-driven, or Boddington fairy tale rooted. Rather, they were practical, aspirational, and emotional. For years, when I’d chat with my Yankee, Yalie, non-hunting father about my hunting, he’d often interject a “please, promise me you’ll never hunt grizzly bears or near them.” Sensitive to the realities

of faith, energy, and promise, I’d never make that promise but rather dance around the lines of “I cannot promise that, as I do not close things off, but I promise if I ever did that, I’d be as cautious as humanly possible.” Aspirational. I also know my limitations and understand that a bullet released does not absolve one of responsibility. I’m not a rifle marksman; and I know it. By taking my .375 Rigby Big Game, I’d be

forced to get as close to possible on the sheep. Not to mention, I had what I felt was enough gun to—yes —stop a buffalo, but more apropos, a charging grizzly. Or at least so I thought. Practical. Unfortunately, today I am unable to relay my stories of the NWT hunt with my father, as last November 2024, while hunting whitetail deer Up North in Michigan, I received a text from my brothers, “Dad had a stroke.” Hopefully someday I can

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 65

Jonathan and his guide, Brent Sinclair, and his first sheep (Dall), Mackenzie Mountains (NWT).

relay my story to him who will be able to convey his admiration and disguised disapproval of my hunt in grizzly territory, but that day is not today. Adding salt to the wound, my mother with whom I spoke almost daily for as long as I can remember, died of cancer in May 2025. My brothers and I buried her in our home state of Virginia, this past June 2025. Prior to my South Nahanni hunt, I’d really not taken 66 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

the time to sit down, slow down, and quietly confront her passing and make peace with it. Mom always said many great things to me, such as “hang in there, Jon.” And one of my favorites, “get what you want in life, Jonboy.” And I wanted to hunt my first sheep with a John Rigby .375 H&H. Emotional. God rest her soul. But to digress. Prior to heading out the morning of departure with our guides, however, there was the famous

time at the range, where everyone got to check their rifles, ensure proper sight-ins, etc. And here, really, is where the tale of the .375 Rigby grew her legs for the story. Did I not mention earlier that I am not a marksman? I confidently approached the fellow hunters taking their 4-5 shots (max) to ensure their rifles as spot on at 200, 300, 400, and some 700 yards, as South Nahanni has targets lined out for these distances. But I cautiously drew my rifle from its soft cover, and bullets from my pocket. Here are my confessions: I’d never shot the rifle beyond 100 yards, at which I had it bore sighted prior to my trip, frankly. With all eyes affixed on me, I remember taking three shots at the 200-yard target. All high by about 3-4 inches, so one of the younger guides was quick to report back. I then remember breathing intently, but with somewhat angst. “I might need a little help,” I said aloud to the group. Unlike the average deer hunter (I hate to disparage a group, but based on observations, I have to), the sheep hunter seems to be a more generous type, kinder, more relaxed perhaps. Sort of like the running community—just happy you’re there and glad to help. Suddenly, I found a sortied village happily around me, helping me to sight my gun in at 100, check at 200, and make me comfortable for the hunt. Notably, among these kind individuals, was none other than Brent Sinclair, whom at that time I did not know I’d be paired up with as my guide. But as fate would have it. Brent went out of his way to get to know my gun, and its prospective shooter. “Mind if I take a couple of shots, Big Jon?” To which I responded verbatim, “it’s not my wife, I don’t mind if you touch her.” This elicited some good laughs from the Brent and the gang, one of whom said, “I’m borrowing that.”

To eventually be paired with Brent as my guide was good fortune indeed. Turns out, I was the last to fly out. Before my new buddy Michael flew out, he came into the cabin where I was pacing about and asked if we could have a word of prayer. And so, with heads bowed, we exchanged quick, poignant words of prayer, godspeed wishes, and off he flew. I was therefore, the last of the Mohicans, a theme which would play out on a number of occasions throughout the next several days in the mountains. The helicopter took me and Brent to a location where we set up our new spike camp for the next few days. Watching the helicopter fly off was a surreal, unsettling, but exciting feeling for me. I’d never been so remote in my life. The first day of the hunt was excellent. My body held up, and blueberries along the way were a nice respite. While my guide moved like a kudu and mountain goat mix, my workouts paid off big time as I was able to enjoy the toil along the way to my first Dall’s sheep. Another phrase on repeat I adopted early, but a phrase from me to me aloud, was “one foot at a time…because two will kill you.” Second day, another mountain, up and down it. 3-4 hours there, 3-4 hours back. Nothing. Third day, a Tuesday. Rain set in the previous evening, and did not let up until late Tuesday afternoon, early evening. We’d been “socked in” the entire day, and I spent the day in camp satellite texting my wife, journaling a bit, and reading my Bible. Day 4 was a Wednesday, and I was excited to hit the mountains again. But somewhat worried about the time and days remaining. On the first night, I’d received a satellite text from my buddy at camp: “ram down.” I heard on the second day, that three of the other hunters had

gotten their rams, too. I was the “last of the Mohicans.” Day 4 was a very tough hunt, but magnificent. We crossed a difficult, rushing stream, just to hike a very steep mountain and its ridges on the search for a nice ram. After an hour or so of pure incline, we made it to the ridge top, glassed a bunch (hours). At one point, towards late afternoon, I blankly asked Brent, “Could the rams have moved?” To which, he bluntly said, “They don’t move too much, if they do not have to. But it does seem they’re just not here. Sheep could be on one mountain one day, and in another country the next if they want. But I really don’t think they’re here— we’ve covered it all.” To confess—I was borderline distraught. This trip was not inexpensive, and Day 4 was approaching a solemn close, which meant tomorrow would be Day 5 , which to me, meant four days removed from when the other hunters all got their rams. Brent said we’d try this area one more time tomorrow and then consider another plan after that. I did not want to hunt this area the next day, and I (admittedly) complained to my wife via satellite texts all about it. She was unsympathetic. I needed that. That evening, while reading my Bible, and trying not to sulk, Brent yelled out from his tent—“Pack your bags, Pilgrim! We’re moving out.” My entire mood changed, and I was excitedly packing up my tent and camp. It was not until the helicopter arrived that I looked at our first little spike camp, that I teared up a bit as the helicopter untimely ripped us away from the womb of that little oasis, now long gone and without a scent of human presence. But the helicopter trip made swift work of any meaningful tears, as we were on our way to Day 5’s new hunting location. We landed and Werner himself

was there. I think he had gone out of his way to make sure “Big Jon” was about to get a nice ram. At this point, I was just going along with the program. “Kill a nice big ram, way up there,” as he pointed to the mountain way in the distance where he claimed he’d seen them and where after 12 hours wait, we could pursue in the morning. Distance in the mountains is very deceiving—what looks close is so very far away, and no picture can accurately portray mountains’ distances, heights, and declines. Just no way. Anyway, Werner shook my hand with a big smile and took off in the helicopter. Day 5. We all woke up fairly early the next morning and made swift work of getting coffee breakfast and “constitutionals,” and we set on. Prior to the day’s ascent, Brent glassed sheep way in the distance that adorned the mountain slope way beyond. “They’re slowly moving upward,” he said. “And we’ve got a pretty poor approach to get up, across the ridge, and avoid all those eyes.” I then asked him if he felt good about our chances, to which he said “It’s all we’ve got. We’ll get on them.” We eventually made it to the top of the mountain and had to start our way across the ridge for what felt like 1-2 miles. Brent at one point told me to sit down and wait for him to glass over the ridge to see where the sheep were, as they had to be right below us somewhere. Eventually, he came back to report we’d have to go around the backside of the ridge of the mountain, which consisted of massive crags, boulders, shifty terrain, and a very treacherous fall if the case presented itself. I remember saying to Brent verbatim, “Isn’t this treacherous?” and he said, “It’s the only way to the sheep, Jonathan.” First time, he’d not called me Jon or Big Jon. I knew we SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 67

were in serious territory. After we climbed around the backside of the mountain’s ridgetop, Brent instructed that I grab my pack and rifle, stay close and “keep very low: it’s about 15 of them down there, many many eyes.” The sheep were below us about 400 yards down the mountain. Brent knew my shooting capabilities, and my rifle. And so, he knew we’d have to get a little closer. “Lean on your back, rifle on chest, and just slide down the mountain until I stop.” High above the sheep, about 250 – 300 yards, we sat, and Brent helped me get prepared for the shot of-a-lifetime. Or should I say shots. We spotted two big rams among about 13 other sheep, which were bedded. Some, however, were moving about and getting in the way of a clear shot at the ram we’d targeted as likely the oldest of the two big rams. The other had finer, lamb tips, ‘but he’s not as old,’ Brent said. I’d therefore begun to set my scope on the older ram. After about 15-20 minutes of waiting, the ram finally started to get up and move about. My heart was racing a bit, but my breathing was slow and steady. Brent confirmed the ram was about 250 yards out, a distance shot I’ve never taken in my life, but my Swarovski scope was fit for purpose. “Place the crosshair right at the top of his back, not on him, but just above his back, like you’re going to graze one of his top back hairs.” After a few moments and Brent’s “you on him yet? Any time now,” I breathed out and slowly pulled the trigger. My .375 Rigby shot out a sound that filled the entire heavenly bowl and valley below “You got him,” Brent said. “You sure,” I said? “Yep, but you got him in the gut, he’s going to go down, just let him go down. He’s done.” “I don’t like the gut shot, I want to take him out,” I said. “If you’re on him, then go ahead, 68 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

just make sure you’re on him, not any of the others.” I let another shot out. Number 2. Missed high. I then let out another shot, “Way high, over his back. Let’s put one more in there…aim at the middle of his body, dead center, Jonathan.” The second time Brent had used my full Christian name. I breathed, slowly wrapped my finger around the trigger and pulled. “HeheHeeeee!!! Thank you, Lord, thank you Lord…I told you you weren’t going home without a sheep,” Brent exclaimed as we gave each other a big hug. “Thank you, Brent…thank you so much,” I kept saying. And then we both got a little emotional, an experience I did not think would happen. Brent had some joyful tears and so did I. “Happens to me every time,” Brent said with respect to crying after a hard hunt for sheep. .” I watched the other, younger sheep run up to the downed ram, as if checking on him before their speedy exit from the scene—and maybe the country. I felt a little sad then, knowing that probably for years, those sheep had known the old ram, and he’d known them. After a little one had made its conclusion, he ran back to the band now ascending a distant slope and out of our lives for good. “What a beautiful animal,” I kept saying to myself. We made it down the mountain slope to where the ram lay. To our surprise, he was big. But to our real surprise, he was huge. I’d taken what I would learn was a 160 cumulative ram, a dream Dall’s sheep for any hunter, much less a first-time sheep hunter. I will not bore you with the rest of the story—the strenuous hike back to spike camp, how I ate the sheep heart mixed in with my boiling water/mountain man beef stroganoff, the stories and regales with the guides and my buddy Michael back at camp, the next day at base camp, and the two days’

(“unsuccessful”) caribou hunt that I embarked on, seeing that I had gotten my sheep and still more time left to hunt, and the grizzly bear that walked 50-75 yards from my tent when Brent was taking an evening ‘constitutional.’ After heartfelt farewells, during my final day back in Whitehorse, Yukon. I’d gone back to the Golden Pan Saloon, in the Best Western hotel located in heart of downtown Whitehorse. There, I met another older sheep hunter that evening and we became fast friends and spoke for a couple hours about sheep, while enjoying Yukon beverages, steak, and good laughs. At one point, he distinctly interjected, “Let me ask you something about when you got your ram…did you cry?” I sat there astounded, and smiling, “Yea I sure did. Why or how did you know to ask me that?” To which he said, “Figured you did. A lot of us do.” I suppose it was then, and since then, that I began to think of the sheep, we sheep hunters, and our connection. I’ve never cried over a deer, an African antelope, or a Cape buffalo. But something was different about the sheep. Maybe, it’s something in our DNA. For some reason, God has always known that we relate to shepherds and sheep more than any other animal. From Abraham and Jacob, to sacrificial lambs, to King David, Psalm 23, and the lamb of God, the Bible is prolific in its employment of sheep and shepherd analogies. The list is endless. Post hunt, Jonathan’s close sheep hunting buddies in good humor of course, have asked him very directly, “Did you have to shoot the horn? And how?” To which, his answer has been “Well, with the wind, distance, and all, the .375 H&H—too much gun, really. Won’t even try and justify it. In fact, not sure what I was thinking.” WS

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The Old Isard of Cobazet BY ALEXANDER SHARIF

Fog and rain; a mountain hunter’s nightmare. 72 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

ike many of you reading this article, I’m passionately enamored with mountain hunting. Unfortunately, the price of any wild sheep hunt has soared into the stratosphere, leaving devoted mountain hunters no choice but to pursue other equally thrilling and far more affordable species such as ibex and chamois. In fact, hunting Capra and Rupicapra species can be even more enjoyable and rewarding. They typically offer a greater challenge thanks to the rugged terrain they inhabit, and they’re often found in groups, each animal serving as a vigilant sentinel for the others. Among these, the chamois holds a special place and sits at the top of the list for discerning European hunters. Each spring, limited hunting tags are auctioned off and vanish almost instantly. This year, I managed to book a late-season hunt for a Pyrenean chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica) through my friend Val of Ibexhuntspain. The tag was for the French side of the Pyrenees, in an area called Le Domaine de Cobazet, located in Pyrénées-Orientales and near the town of Prades in French Catalonia. In the months that preceded the hunt, I was over the moon as this would give me the opportunity to hunt in France and experience its rich and ancient hunting culture firsthand. On the eve of Halloween, I boarded a Boeing Dreamliner bound for Barcelona, then continued to Prades, which would serve as my base as I chased what the local French Catalans affectionately call the isard.

About the Species

The chamois is an agile mountain ungulate with a slender body and small hooked horns, endemic to the mountains of Europe and Asia Minor. Its scientific name, Rupicapra, comes from Rupes (“rock”) and Capra (“goat”). Shoulder height is roughly 30 inches, with adult males weighing around 60 pounds. They lack the preorbital glands common to sheep but possess subcaudal glands. The horns are generally circular in cross-section with no keel. Sexual dimorphism is subtle; females are slightly smaller and can occasionally grow longer horns than males. Average horn length is around 10 inches with a basal circumference of 2 ½ inches. Their summer coat is reddish-brown, turning dark brown in winter, while the underbody, including the lower jaw, throat, and face remains yellowish. Life expectancy is about 12 years for males and somewhat longer for females. They are browsers, do not compete with domestic livestock, and are equipped with exceptional senses of smell, sight, and hearing. When threatened, their escape strategy is simple: fleeing uphill and disappearing in the vegetation. They communicate with bleats and growls and are primarily active at dawn and dusk, except during the rut, when the males behave as if fueled by pure adrenaline. Gestation is roughly 170 days, with females giving birth to a single kid. Chamois are currently listed in CITES Appendix II (not threatened). However, habitat encroachment, particularly from ski resorts and other SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 73

mountain recreation activities remains a challenge to long-term population stability. How many subspecies exist? It depends on whom you ask. The CIC recognizes 10 subspecies. In my non-scientific opinion, however, the classification proposed by Corlatti et al. (2011) makes the most sense: two subspecies; Rupicapra pyrenaica in the south (Pyrenean, Cantabrian, Abruzzo) and Rupicapra rupicapra in the north (Alpine, Chartreuse, Tatra, Balkan, Anatolian, Caucasian, Carpathian).

THE HUNT

For this adventure, I was allotted only two days. Any mountain hunt with such a narrow window is a gamble as late-fall weather can shut down even the best-laid plans. Still, I refused to let worry rent space in my head. When we arrived at our hotel in Prades, the concierge greeted us with a thick French accent familiar to

Evening hunt on day one. 74 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

me, as I speak the language fluently. The next morning, our local guide from the concession appeared; a skinny blond 20-year-old chap with legs of steel and a cheerful smile. We climbed into his small truck and ascended a narrow, winding road to the gate marking the hunting area. Rain had already begun, and dawn was still a rumor on the horizon. At the trailhead, I confirmed the 200-meter zero on a Blaser R93 rifle that he had brought along, chambered in my favorite mountain caliber: 270 WCF. A couple of shots was all I needed to adapt to the straight-pull action and cocking mechanism of the Blaser system. We began our methodical climb through an oak forest, a scene straight out of the old European hunting tales of Gaston Phoebus’ Le Livre de Chasse, which I had devoured as a teenager. The ground was carpeted with acorns and leaves; the woods were quiet,

almost enchanted. At any moment I expected a herd of wild boar or a red deer to explode from the brush and sure enough, one did. After about 90 minutes we reached a basin with potential for glassing chamois, but visibility was no more than 100 meters. We pushed higher in hopes of climbing above the clouds. Another hour brought us into the Alpine, but conditions worsened; visibility dropped, and the wind sharpened. We hunkered behind a large rock, lit the Jetboil, and brewed coffee, listening to the occasional rattle of falling stones, likely chamois billies chasing each other during the rut. By 3 p.m., with visibility down to 50 meters, we called it a day and descended. Back at the truck, our local guide received word from a colleague that visibility had improved in the leeward valleys to the west. We immediately drove there for an evening hunt. After a steep one-hour ascent,

Day two: wall-to-wall sunshine.

we settled on a rocky outcropping overlooking a fogless, windless basin, pure magic. With an hour of daylight left, we hoped to turn up chamois. All we saw was a red deer cow and a fox. That night, jet-lagged and restless, my mind spun with a gazillion “what ifs” about the final day’s weather. I washed the clutter from my thoughts with prayers and finally slept.

Day Two: St. Hubert’s Blessing Morning brought wall-to-wall sunshine. The sky glowed, the birds were chirping, and with a belly full of French delicacies and a heart full of hope, we hiked back toward the previous day’s drainage. Within 90 minutes we broke out of the forest and settled on a saddle to glass. Animals were everywhere. We spotted several groups of chamois, but none worth pursuing, yet with the rut in full swing, patience would

hopefully pay off. Around 11 a.m., while scanning a steep west-facing slope, we spotted three nannies and an immature billy about 500 yards away. Moments later, a grizzled old Billy burst from the forest, circling them like a pronghorn buck checking for a receptive doe. One look through the spotting scope and we knew he was a shooter. We estimated his age at eight years, a perfect mature trophy. In the meantime, I slid into the prone position, exhaled, and settled behind the Blaser. Through the Swarovski’s lit reticle, the world narrowed. Across the basin, the isard chased the nannies, leaping effortlessly across the rocks; a ghost made of lean muscle and instinct. I tracked him, waiting for my moment to capitalize on the situation. He paused on a pale flat ledge, brush obscuring his vitals. Two more steps, I thought, just two

The enchanted forest where our hunting concession was. SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 75

I was ecstatic when I laid my hands on him.

more. He took them, quartering away and presenting the kind of quartering away shot that tests both nerve and faith of any mountain hunter, especially on a small animal such as chamois. I whispered a prayer to St. Hubert, patron saint of hunters, and let instinct take over. The Blaser’s trigger broke like an icicle, followed by the haunting echo of the bullet’s flight. Silence swallowed the mountains. When I turned to look at Val and our guide, both were grinning. But tradition held; we wouldn’t celebrate until my hands touched those candy-cane horns. We found him tucked beneath the white rock where he fell, hidden 76 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

in brush. After dragging him to a flat boulder, we began the photo session. The tag was snapped to his lower leg, as is the hunter’s tradition in that part of France. Upon aging him properly by exposing the horn bases and examining the annuli, we discovered he was not eight, but eleven years old. His molars were gone, and a deep tear in his right lip told of many battles for breeding rights. These discoveries filled me with satisfaction as we had taken an old billy past his prime, exactly the type that benefits long-term herd health. We also noted the raised puff of hair behind his horns; his enlarged scent gland, similar to that of an

American mountain goat. The pungent odor was noticeable but not unpleasant. A skilled taxidermist should preserve this feature on a rut-season mount, and I am planning the same. We checked his stomach for a Bezoar; a hardened hair or fiber mass historically attributed to medicinal powers, and today considered a rare curiosity, like finding a band on a wild duck. Our billy did not have one. After caping, I cut a piece of his backstrap for lunch. We built a small fire on a rock shelf and cooked the meat, savoring it with other Catalan goodies and cowboy coffee. Around 3 p.m., after a short mountain siesta, we packed up and

Chamois back straps cooked over fire; divine!

descended back to the truck. Back in Prades, I tipped our guide generously and thanked him for his knowledge and for lending me his rifle. A celebratory meal of Magret de Canard with a glass of local Cotes du Roussillon followed. That night, I slept like a log.

After the Hunt

With the hunt complete and the chamois safely put into salt, I turned to sightseeing. After all, I consider it a cardinal sin to not indulge in the local culture after your hunt. Val and I visited Villefranche-de-Conflent, a fortified town founded in 1092 by Count Guillaume Raymond de Cerdagne. In the 17th century, king Louis XIV had General Vauban reinforce the ramparts and construct Fort Liberia. Today, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its medieval and Vauban-era architecture. The next day, I said goodbye to Val after he dropped me in Tarragona, where I spent the afternoon exploring this remarkable Catalonian city on foot. In case you

are interested in its history, around 218 B.C., during the RomanCarthaginian conflict, General Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio chose this seaside hill for a military settlement; Tarraco, thanks to its strategic elevation, access to the sea, fresh water, and defensibility. Tarraco became the capital of Hispania Citerior and the most important Roman city in Spain in terms of infrastructure. I toured the Roman amphitheater, the Balcony of Europe, the Roman walls, the Cathedral, and strolled down the Rambla Nova, sampling seafood swimming in Romesco sauce paired with Macabeu wine. The next day, as the Dreamliner lifted off from Barca airport, I gazed at the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees in the distance one more time, grateful for another safe and successful mountain hunt in a land far from home. As long as health and gainful employment permit, I will continue returning to the mountains abroad; to hunt, to learn, and to savor the cultural experiences that make each journey unforgettable and timeless. WS

Age above size or beauty, every time! SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 77

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HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR HIGH-ELEVATION HUNTING? MTNTOUGH

errain t g in t n u h r ia il ier, Your once fam step feels heav

“now comes with added hurdles as emacohre from your emanding d t n e m o m h c a e or more above % 0 2 10 y b p o r nd body. VO2 max ca ascular system v io d r a c r u o y ning 8,000 feet, mea tput. u o s s e l r o f r works harde

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80 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

igh-elevation hunting. To the uninitiated, it might sound postcard-perfect, but for those who’ve tasted the raw, unfiltered reality of a mountain hunt without adequate prep, it’s a stark reminder of a brutal showdown with Mother Nature herself. The thin air can quietly drain your energy, blur your concentration, and quickly send you back to lower grounds. There are measures you can take

to reduce your risk of elevation sickness and increase the speed of acclimating. It’s all about preparation, here’s how: Preparing for high elevation hunting involves acclimatization, physical training, and proper nutrition. Gradual elevation exposure helps adapt the body to thin air, while workouts enhance endurance. Balanced diet aids recovery and energy sustenance. While elevation sickness is no

joke, this isn’t a call to retreat. It’s a call to rise. If you’re headed out West for hunting, you’ll need to properly plan for the elevation — this guide is meant to assist you with that. We’ll cover the basic challenges of hunting at high elevations and then cover practical tips to overcome those challenges. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive playbook to turn potential misery into memorable success in the high country.

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 81

The Challenges of Hunting at High Elevations

High-elevation hunting isn’t just a change in location — it’s a whole new ball game. It’s a place that tosses out the rule book and hits you with unique challenges that can test your mettle. In this rugged and adrenalinepumping terrain, you’re not just up against elusive game, but the very air you breathe and the unpredictable elements you’re immersed in. Three critical factors should be on your radar:

1. ELEVATION SICKNESS: THE UNSEEN THREAT

The biggest challenge of hunting at high elevation is elevation sickness, otherwise known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). It’s the body’s negative response to the lower oxygen levels found

82 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

at high elevations, a physiological backlash against the abrupt change in environment. The symptoms of elevation sickness can vary from mild to severe. You may find yourself wrestling with headaches, fatigue, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, or shortness of breath. In its most severe form, it can lead to poor coordination, confusion, and even life-threatening conditions like high elevation cerebral edema (HACE) and high elevation pulmonary edema (HAPE). Several elements can amplify your risk of elevation sickness: • Rapid Ascent: Shooting up to high elevations without giving your body the time to adjust is a primary trigger for

elevation sickness. Your body needs a grace period to adapt to the lower oxygen levels and pressure changes. • Physical Exertion: Diving into intense activity or pushing your physical limits shortly after hitting high elevations can bring on the symptoms faster. • Dehydration: Lack of hydration at high elevations can feed into the onset of elevation sickness. The dry air and increased breathing rate can lead to a higher fluid loss, hampering your body’s ability to handle the elevation. • Individual Physiology: Some folks are naturally more susceptible to elevation sickness due to their genetic

makeup. If you’ve had a run-in with elevation sickness before, you might be more likely to experience it again. The symptoms and their intensity can vary widely, creating a spectrum of elevation sickness: • Mild elevation Sickness: This stage is marked by symptoms like headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath during exertion, nausea, and disrupted sleep. It can feel a lot like nursing a hangover. • Moderate elevation Sickness: Symptoms ramp up and may start to hinder your ability to function. You could experience loss of coordination (ataxia),

severe headaches that don’t ease up with medication, and increased vomiting. • Severe elevation Sickness: This is a red alert. Symptoms include shortness of breath even at rest, inability to walk, confusion, and fluid buildup in the lungs and brain. It’s crucial to descend immediately to a lower elevation and seek medical attention.

Knowing how to spot elevation sickness in all its forms is a key first step in tackling the trials of high-elevation hunting. Early

Navigating t he mountains suddenly car for prey ries an extr a lay

beyond basic er of difficu lty that goes hunting skil l s . S h ot placement can suffer f precision rom fatigueinduced trem decision-mak ors, and ing slows wh en the brain operates wit h less oxyge n.

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 83

recognition allows hunters to adjust plans before minor issues escalate into hunt-ending or dangerous situations. Many experienced backcountry hunters emphasize that prevention through smart preparation beats treatment every time.

2. DIMINISHED PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE High elevations serve as a relentless arena where the thin, oxygen-starved air puts your physical capabilities to the test. Decreased stamina, weakened strength, and creeping sluggishness in reaction times can become your new normal. Your once familiar hunting terrain now comes with added hurdles as each step feels heavier, each moment demanding more from your body. VO2 max can drop by 10-20% or more above 8,000 feet, meaning your cardiovascular system works harder for less output. Muscle fatigue sets in faster due to reduced oxygen delivery, and even simple tasks like glassing or packing out meat require more effort. Navigating the mountains for prey suddenly carries an extra layer of difficulty that goes beyond basic hunting skills. Shot placement precision can suffer from fatigueinduced tremors, and decisionmaking slows when the brain operates with less oxygen. This is why pre-hunt conditioning specific to elevation stress is non-negotiable for serious mountain hunters.

3. EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS As if elevation sickness and diminished physical performance weren’t challenging enough, high elevations toss in the wildcard of erratic weather conditions. This is a place where the weather doesn’t just change—it morphs. Abrupt temperature plunges, powerful winds, unexpected snowfall—all factors that contribute to the unpredictable nature of your 84 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

high-elevation hunting expedition. Equipping yourself with layered clothing and packing the right gear isn’t just about comfort anymore. It’s a survival tactic, a means to ensure your safety and the success of your hunt. Hypothermia risk skyrockets because cold combined with wind and exertion accelerates heat loss. Lightning, whiteouts, and sudden storms demand flexibility in your hunt plan. Understanding these challenges is the first step in your high-elevation hunting adventure. Only by acknowledging and respecting these harsh realities can you create a plan that keeps you safe and enhances the hunting experience.

Practical Strategies for Overcoming elevation Challenges While Hunting

Conquering a high-country hunt isn’t about wrestling the elements— it’s about outsmarting them. You know the factors that amplify your risks at high elevations — rapid ascent, intense physical exertion, dehydration, and individual susceptibility— so now it’s time to apply that knowledge into actionable steps. That’s why we’ve put together this list of practical strategies. These aren’t mere suggestions; they’re tactics drawn from the wisdom of seasoned backcountry hunters, designed to acclimate you to high elevations as quickly as possible.

HYDRATION — QUENCHING ELEVATION

• Drink Up: Make sure you’re well-hydrated before heading to high elevations. Ramp up your water intake in the days leading up to your trip to help ward off elevation-related health issues. Pre-hydration builds fluid reserves that the body draws upon during the initial stress of elevation. • Maintain Fluids: Aim to drink 3-5 liters of water daily

g the right

Equipping yourself with layered clothing and packinl tactic, It’s a surviva gear isn’t just about comfort anymore. a means to ensure your safety and the

at high elevations. This will help replenish lost fluids due to increased respiration and potential sweating caused by elevation. Sip consistently rather than chugging to avoid discomfort. • Skip Dehydrating Drinks: Cut back on diuretic beverages like coffee and alcohol that can lead to dehydration. Opt for herbal teas or electrolyteenhanced water instead. • Dress Smart: Adjust your clothing before starting your climb or hike to prevent excessive sweating, helping to maintain hydration and a comfortable body temperature. Layering allows you to shed or add pieces as conditions change without unnecessary moisture loss. Additional strategies include monitoring urine color (pale yellow is ideal), using insulated reservoirs to prevent freezing, and incorporating electrolyte mixes to retain fluids better in dry, high-elevation air. Respiratory water loss alone

success of your hunt.

can exceed a liter per day above 10,000 feet.

NUTRITION — FUELING OPTIMIZATION

• Caloric Balance: Keep up a sufficient calorie intake when at high elevations to prevent unwanted weight loss and meet your body’s energy needs. Appetite often drops, so plan calorie-dense, appealing foods. • Protein Power: Make sure your diet has enough protein to support muscle recovery and repair. Moderate amounts spread throughout the day are more effective than large doses. • Balanced Meals: Eat complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, plenty of potassium for electrolyte balance, and increase your iron intake to boost oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. Iron-rich foods like lean red meat or fortified options help with red blood cell production over time. • Smart Snacking: Choose nutritious, high-yield snacks

throughout the day to provide a steady supply of energy and reduce discomfort at higher elevations. Focus on easily digestible options during active periods. Carbohydrates become even more critical at elevation because they require less oxygen to metabolize than fats. Test your menu on training hikes to ensure it sits well when exertion and elevation combine.

ACCLIMATIZATION — ELEVATION ADAPTATION

• Slow and Steady: Limit your elevation gain to no more than 1,000 feet per day once above 10,000 feet, allowing your body to adjust gradually. Start with low-intensity activities and gradually ramp up the intensity as your body adjusts to the elevation. • Rest and Recover: Build a rest day into your itinerary for every 3,000 feet climbed, giving your body time to recover

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 85

Functional trainingncetha, tand

ura builds aerobic capacity, muscular end idends. mental resilience pays massive div and adjust. Avoid using sleep aids, which can interfere with natural acclimatization and may mask potential warning signs of elevation-related problems. • Elevation Rotation: Spend your days at higher elevations and descend to a lower elevation for sleeping, aiding effective acclimatization. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy is a proven technique used by mountaineers and adaptable for hunters. • Know the Signs: Get familiar with the symptoms of elevation sickness and take necessary actions if symptoms appear. Descend to a lower elevation immediately if severe elevation sickness symptoms persist. • Descend If Needed: If you’re still not feeling better or experiencing severe symptoms of elevation sickness, descend to a lower elevation.

86 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Descending can help alleviate the effects of high elevation on your body. • Avoid Sleep Aids: Steer clear of any sleep aids while adjusting to the elevation. Sleep aids can interfere with natural acclimatization processes and may mask potential warning signs of elevation-related problems. • Arrive Early: Get to your destination elevation at least 48 hours before engaging in strenuous physical activity to give your body enough time to adapt. Ideally, plan 3-5 days for meaningful acclimatization before hard hunting days. Consider supplemental strategies like acetazolamide (Diamox) under medical guidance for higher-risk trips, or natural aids such as gingko biloba or beetroot juice for nitric oxide support, though results vary. Simulation tools like elevation tents or masks

can help pre-trip if travel time is limited.

PHYSICAL FITNESS — PEAK CONDITIONING

• Be Prepared: Regular exercise before undertaking high-elevation activities can boost your stamina and cardiovascular fitness, enabling a smoother adjustment to higher elevations. Incorporate hill repeats, rucking with weight, and high-intensity intervals to mimic mountain demands. • Listen to Your Body: Stay patient, listen to your body’s signals, and adjust your activities accordingly, allowing time for proper acclimation. • Pack Smart: Bring only the essential hunting gear for a high elevation hunt to avoid carrying unnecessary weight. Every extra pound amplifies the oxygen cost of movement. Functional training that

In other words, if you don’t follow

the protocol to prepare for a hunt at elevation,

you’re rolling the dice.

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builds aerobic capacity, muscular endurance, and mental resilience pays massive dividends. Training at or near your hunt elevations whenever possible provides the most specific adaptations.

NAVIGATING ELEVATION SYMPTOMS The most common symptoms of elevation sickness, including headaches and nausea, can throw you off your game when you’re in the thick of a hunt. Overcoming these hurdles involves a strategic mix of prevention, mitigation, and smart decision-making. To combat headaches, hydration is your best ally. Dehydration can often amplify the pain, so it’s crucial to drink plenty of water even before the headache kicks in. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also offer relief, but they’re no substitute for proper hydration and rest. Nausea can be a tougher opponent, as it can drain your strength and kill your appetite. In these cases, eating small, frequent meals can help. Go for carbohydrate-rich foods, which are easier to digest and can provide quick energy.

88 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Certain medications, like Diamox, can help reduce symptoms, but always consult a medical professional before use. Handling the discomfort while keeping your eye on the hunt requires mental toughness and a practical approach. Focusing on the task at hand can be a powerful distraction from minor aches and discomforts. Engage in deep breathing exercises, which can not only help to alleviate symptoms but also bring your focus back to the present moment. Taking frequent short breaks can also help by giving your body a chance to rest and recover, making the entire hunting experience less physically demanding. Remember, experiencing elevation sickness doesn’t mean you’re unfit for high-elevation hunting; it simply means your body is adjusting to new heights. Listen to your body, give it time to acclimate, and you’ll be ready to conquer the backcountry like never before. Many hunters report that symptoms often peak on days 1-3 and improve significantly with continued smart management.

Rise to the Challenge Hunting at high elevation, like all forms of backcountry hunting, comes with its own set of challenges. If you’re tracking elk or mule deer at any significant elevation, elevation sickness can quickly become a formidable adversary. No matter how seasoned you are, hunting at high elevations is a great leveler. In other words, if you don’t follow the protocol to prepare for a hunt at elevation, you’re rolling the dice. Hydration, nutrition, and your elevation readiness all contribute to your speed of acclimating to the mountains. What you snack on and how hydrated you stay determines how well equipped you are to handle the thin air and demanding conditions. As for your body, start tuning it up as far in advance as possible. Commit to functional fitness programming designed specifically for mountain athletes. Dive into the MTNTOUGH Backcountry Hunter Series and other performance programs built for the demands you face. WS

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Four Women Bighorn Hunter Conservationists ...and Big Rams SUBMITTED BY BRYAN BARTLETT, NEW MEXICO WILD SHEEP FOUNDATION COMPILED AND EDITED BY MATT DWONCH, WSF STAFF

t seems every year we see more women hunter conservationists up on the mountain and out in the field across the United States and Canada. Most have brought family and friends along with them. It is no different in New Mexico, which has a rich history of tough and rugged frontier women in the outdoors. Women have always been a part of our hunting heritage. However, these days we have many more who are contributing to and making a difference in helping to preserve our outdoor wildlife and habitat for future generations. 92 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

In 2025 20 percent of the New Mexico public bighorn sheep hunters were women and they all harvested a sheep. Four of these folks took really big Rocky Mountain bighorns ranging from green scores of 186 to 200 inches. In every case, drawing a bighorn sheep tag has had a profound effect on their lives, as well as everyone else’s who were a part of their once-in-a-lifetime adventure. From the moment they realized they had drawn this most coveted tag, to the aftermath of harvesting a bighorn sheep, the experience was a non-

stop roller-coaster ride. We salute these women and all other women hunters everywhere. They are an integral part of our outdoor culture, and they play a key role in preserving the way of life we all cherish and enjoy. We also salute the Wild Sheep Foundation and its members for their steadfast support of the WSF “Women Hunt” Program. Here are those four New Mexico women hunters with a few words on what their bighorn hunts meant to them. WS

Anisa Carter

What started as a casual thought for my boyfriend James Duran and I—“We’ll see if I draw anything the first time.”— turned into the opportunity of-a-lifetime. Early morning of April 16th, I was awakened by James. Still half-asleep, I listened as he told me I had successfully drawn a once-in-a-lifetime Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep tag. In that moment, the reality of what lay ahead set in; it felt unreal. When I finally realized I would be pursuing my first Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, the magnitude of the opportunity truly set in. I knew this was more than a hunt. It was going to be an incredible experience. Knowing bighorn sheep are one of the most sought-after big game species in North America, and drawing a tag is something many hunters spend decades hoping for, to do it on my first try was both humbling and overwhelming. Together, we began calling

friends and family to share the news and tell them to prepare for the hunt ahead. Everyone immediately rallied behind the opportunity, understanding just special this tag truly was. The support I received from the people around me became one of the most meaningful parts of the entire journey. As time went on we knew we had to find someone who knew the mountain range I would be hunting and its bighorn sheep better than anyone else. Through mutual friends and word of mouth it became clear that Raul Sisneros (@shedyeti42) was the individual we needed to contact. A local with a great understanding of the area, Raul brought years of experience, countless hours behind the glass, and an unmatched knowledge of the sheep that inhabit these mountains. His extensive photo documentation tracked individual rams and their movement patterns over time, and he had even given names to each of the mature rams—an indication of the level of detail and dedication

he brought to the pursuit. As the excitement set in after talking to Raul and other friends who knew the potential of this hunt, James made a call to his close friend Remi Warren (@remiwarren) to share the news of my draw and the rare opportunity to potentially harvest a bighorn sheep in the 200-inch class. He also asked if Remi would be interested in filming the hunt. Remi quickly assembled a production team to document the experience, turning the hunt into something truly special. Through his efforts, Weatherby Rifles came on board to sponsor the hunt, providing a brand-new, never-before-seen Weatherby Mark V Live Wild Carbon chambered in 7mm Backcountry. Vortex Optics supplied both a Razor HD riflescope and a Razor HD spotting scope, while First Lite outfitted us with technical hunting apparel. Mystery Ranch provided backpacks, MagView Gear supplied essential optics accessories, and YETI contributed a full complement of camp gear that elevated our base camp and overall experience. Having confidence in my equipment allowed me to focus on the hunt itself rather than worrying about gear. Everything was top-tier, reliable, and purposebuilt for my hunt. Our first official glassing trip took place on May 3, 2025—a day that would ultimately define the entire hunt. As we drove deeper into the unit, the country opened up into massive, rugged canyons. At our very first stop, we spotted a group of rams. One immediately stood out. Known as Thor, he was an old warrior—his face marked with scars from years of battle. He carried himself with the presence only age and dominance can earn. Seeing a true trophy-class ram within the first ten minutes of scouting was almost unreal. We spent time watching Thor and the rams with him, then decided to continue SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 93

down the road to see what else the mountain might reveal. Not far from Thor, we spotted another mature ram bedded on a hillside just above a yucca bush. Raul instantly recognized him as a ram he had known for years and referred to as “Black Ram.” Calm and unaware, he looked down toward us, completely oblivious of the role he was about to play in my life. We set up the spotting scopes and watched him for over an hour. His horns were heavy and full of character, but it was his unique, and what some might call “loopy shaped”, horns that made him unforgettable. In that moment, I knew without question this would be a ram I would possibly want to harvest. On May 18, we returned for another scouting trip, hoping to turn up additional rams. After stopping at multiple glassing points with no luck, we made one final stop. There stood a group of ten mature rams below us. Black Ram was among them, along with another heavy-horned ram known as “Forklift.” Both were fully mature, true trophy-class animals. Watching them from under 100 yards allowed us to fully appreciate the character and individuality each ram carried. From that point forward, it was clear—Black Ram or Forklift would be my focus. As the scouting continued, new rams appeared, but my attention never wavered. The concern, however, was timing. Another hunter was scheduled to hunt the unit ten days before my opener, and I knew there was a real chance one of those two rams could be taken. August 1 marked the opening day for the New Mexico Auction sheep hunter. That morning would determine which ram I would pursue. Around 10 a.m., we reached a high vantage point and noticed a group of hunters setting up across the canyon. After speaking with one of their spotters, we learned the news— 94 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Forklift had been harvested. From that moment on, my focus narrowed to a single ram: Black Ram. On August 3, we set up camp nearby and began our hunt in earnest. Late that evening, after a long day of glassing, James looked over his shoulder and said to Andy Salgado, “There’s a bunch of rams coming out of that drainage—there he is. Black Ram is there.” With about an hour of light remaining, we repositioned for a better look. Sure enough, Black Ram stood among seven other rams. We watched them until darkness settled in. The morning of August 4 found us glassing the same area. The rams were feeding along a hillside, slowly moving toward another canyon. We repositioned by truck and relocated them, only to watch all eight rams suddenly pick up their heads and run full speed down the canyon, disappearing from sight. We scrambled to several vantage points over the next few hours but couldn’t relocate them. Eventually, we called Raul and explained what had happened. Calm as ever, he said, “I’ll be there in a few hours. I’ll find them.” Thirty minutes later, Raul arrived and delivered the news—they were bedded on a ridge. For the next five days, the rams barely moved. Each morning, we confirmed their location until they bedded mid-day, then returned in the evenings to ensure they hadn’t traveled far. On August 7, we learned that Game and Fish would be conducting a helicopter survey of the sheep herd. By mid-morning, the helicopter was diving into the canyons, pushing air hard in an attempt to count sheep. We split into groups and covered multiple vantage points to keep track of Black Ram in case he broke away. Fortunately, the helicopter passed without disturbing the rams. With confidence in the ram’s location, I decided it was time to fully prepare myself. I contacted my shooting coach, Joe Gurule,

and we headed to the range. With disciplined practice behind my 7mm Backcountry rifle, I consistently connected on targets at 600 yards— and stretched confidently out to 1,000 yards. The morning of August 10 arrived—opening day. We split into teams covering distances from 2,000 yards down to 600. My group moved into position just 182 yards from Black Ram as he grazed with seven other rams. I waited patiently. When the moment came, I made three solid shots on the ram. The sight of watching my harvest go down was nothing like I had ever experienced. I was immediately embraced with hugs and congratulations from everyone involved. I quickly walked down to where he laid and paid my respects for letting me take him. Holding his horns in my arms was such an enraptured feeling—there was truly nothing like the exhilaration of my victory. In the end I was sad to see him go, but so fortunate to keep this experience forever. Growing up as a young girl with a deep interest in hunting and the outdoors despite not coming from a hunting family, I was drawn to a lifestyle I had yet to fully understand. Experiencing it firsthand and harvesting this remarkable animal gave me a profound appreciation for the dedication, discipline, and effort required to make a hunt successful. Surrounded by the right people, and with the guidance and support of James and his friends, I came to truly understand the responsibility and meaning behind this unforgettable experience. A special thank you to Andy Salgado of H&A; Outfitters, Derek Harris of South Peak Outfitters, and Charles Gonzales for being there from the first scouting trip all the way through the day Black Ram was harvested. Thank you to everyone else who played a role in making this hunt so special.WS

Caitlyn Lack

This was a humbling experience that was much anticipated from the moment I drew the tag. Just the thought of being able to harvest one of the biggest Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in the world was overwhelming! A busy life made the prep work difficult, but help from God, friends and family made this hunt a success. The hunt was short. We arrived a day before the hunt to find a

ram we wanted to shoot. I had the privilege to meet the other hunter who drew the same tag. A beautiful person that I would say made this hunt even better to experience with. That day, we found the ram we wanted, one with round horns and a beautiful cape. We watched him until sundown. After dinner we made the decision to go after the ram, the one they called “Round Ram”. He was full of mass and curved around to make him look like a beach ball. We

didn’t name him, but we had the privilege to meet some remarkable guides and people who study and admire these rams. The hunt started the next morning and we decided to go to a spot where we could look down at Round Ram from where we saw him the night before. With the help of my father in-law Randy Lack, Scotty Lack (my husband), and Rick Ortega, we spotted him in no time. I prayed for an experience that was quiet, cool, calm, and collected. I wanted to be sure this was the ram I wanted as this was my only chance in my lifetime. We got set up with the tripod and camera and I was ready. With one good, 214-yard shot, he reared up, then fell over backwards and slid about ten yards before he stopped. He wasn’t in a spot where I could take another clear shot, but we thought he was done, so we waited. To our surprise, after two minutes and 56 seconds he gave his last effort and down the mountain he went. He tumbled and we cringed. Another 200 yards down Round Ram expired and wedged himself against a dead tree, the only thing stopping him from a much longer tumble. As we made our way down to him—it was steep—but not as gnarly as it could have been. He had chipped his left horn and landed in a terrible spot. We strapped him to the dead tree with our belts, but the tree was ready to go down with him, swaying and cracking with every move we made to dress him. Thankfully we got him caped and quartered and were happy to get him moved to higher ground to make the cleanup easier and to take better pictures. Many prayers and humbling thoughts later, we made it. A couple of trips back up the mountain and the experience was done—and one I will never forget! WS SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 95

Samantha Valdez

At 6:15 a.m. I heard the blaring ring of my alarm. Sleepily I made my way to turn on lights and start waking up my three boys. A quick few minutes on Facebook and I

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saw the news about draw results being posted. Like downing an espresso shot, I was instantly wideeyed, awake, and into the NMGAF website to check my results. As the page loaded and I saw the green

highlighted tag, I couldn’t believe it. I had drawn a once-in-a-lifetime Rocky Mountain bighorn tag in the Pecos! Hands trembling from astonishment and excitement I immediately notified close

family members and friends. The overwhelming amount of support I received was truly inspiring. Coming from Taos, NM, and planting roots in Mora, NM, these small northern New Mexico communities have a very strong foundation on being there for each other. Within the following months a hunting party of eight genuine people was established. Many hours and trips to the area for scouting was put in by all of these amazing people. This kind of hunt is one that deserves respect. There’s no driving up to campsites or utilizing any kind of UTV/ATV. This hunt requires dedication and true grit. You can hike it all or horseback it all, but these are the two options you have. I myself had been on horses in the past, but nothing to the extent of what this hunt requires. Rocky and thick mountain terrain, small trails, and lots of ground to cover to even get to campsites was just the beginning. A lone rider of the group headed up two nights prior to the hunt, and the rest of us headed up the day before opening morning. A hunting party of six with 12 horses and mules then started the way up to the camp area to meet the other group member with another two horses. The hunting party included Teresa Lujan, Isaac Romero (both owners of HCH Adventures LLC.) Brandon Fernandez, Josh Esquibel, Donevan Sanchez, TJ Valdez, and myself Samantha Valdez. A beautiful two-mile long horseback ride through the burn scars from the Calf Canyon/ Hermits fire was one for the books. I myself had only ridden this trail once before the week prior, but it was every bit just as spectacular. Thanks to Brandon and his gracious wife, I was able to ride Rojo. Rojo was such a gentle and kind horse and was the perfect fit for this inexperienced rider. I can’t express enough how

grateful I am to have had him provided for this hunt. Once at camp, Teresa and I worked on setting up the rest of the camp. The others all took off to scout for the evening. During this time, another group member came into camp with his two horses, Rudy Lovato. Some weather hit and we held out in the tents and then all reconvened once it passed— enjoying a great evening around the campfire laughing, throwing jokes, and creating everlasting memories. Opening morning came and everyone was on their A game. We all decided to split off in different areas to get eyes on whatever was out there. After a long time of glassing with little activity, TJ and I were about to head to the others when a call came through that a group was spotted. We rode to them and things went from 0-100 in seconds. Isaac informed us that Rudy had found a nice group of rams bedded down. After some ranging they were 550 yards away. We discussed a game plan and Isaac,TJ and I proceeded to a rocky ledge directly parallel to them. Teresa and Rudy stayed at the area where they were first seen. The other group was notified of the game plan and were making their way back to the area. From our position, the rams were 249 yards away and we made the call to wait them out. After almost an hour the bigger one we had our eyes on stood up. As I got into position all I could hear was my eldest son saying “don’t miss mom.” I had my sight right on the ram, I waited for him to adjust his head as I didn’t want to shoot through the horns, took my breath, squeezed the trigger, and let the bullet fly. I kept still, my body frozen in time as I saw him hunch up and heard impact. He took off to a small group of trees and bushes. We originally could only see three rams and three stood standing. It

was a moment of confusion. We kept looking to see where my ram was then heard a joyous yell from Teresa. At that point I knew he was down, but we couldn’t see him. I was consumed with my feelings. The hike down to him then commenced. In the blink of an eye Isaac was already down the basin. Before I knew it the whole hunting party was at the ram, and as I got there with Teresa by my side, they all had covered my ram with their jackets and unveiled him like a present on Christmas morning. My jaw dropped. He was a monster. So many overwhelming emotions came over me. I killed that. I got it done, and all with one shot. I was beyond proud of myself. We all celebrated a beautiful victory together as the work to get him out of there began. Through the hard work and dedication of this hunting party my ram was hiked out. From the time of the shot to the time we got up the mountain it took a little over four hours. It was a hell hole but worth it. Horses were loaded and we made our way back to camp stopping for a much needed water break at a small spring on the way. At camp we celebrated and indulged in the meat harvested by a truly unbelievable group of people. Originally I thought of naming him Hell Hole since that’s what he came out of, but in the end, it was decided to name him The Norteños Ram. He was earned by all in that group who come from northern NM. Eight amazing men and women with a total of 16 horses and mules got it done the high country way. The Norteños Ram came in for Boone and Crockett at 186 4/8! In ending this once-in-a-lifetime story, I want to say thank you to every person who helped make this happen. They all volunteered their time, animals, supplies, effort, and grit purely out of friendship and loyalty. For that I am forever grateful. WS SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 97

.. Zoe Havlena Rocky Mountain bighorn scoring

195-5/8 B&C points. This story is about my sheep, one of the largest harvested by a woman—but it’s also about what this pinnacle of a trophy-of-alifetime, and hunting at its core, means for me. Early morning in late-April 2025. I was getting ready for work, leaning against the kitchen counter, holding a coffee in one hand (piñon, for

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those in the know) and pulling up the draw results for NMDGF on my phone in the other. Despite getting married less than seven months earlier, my weekdays are spent three hours away from my husband on account of my new job. A move which would also turn out to spell the luck that I was now checking, double checking, double-triplequadruple checking, and then calling up my husband and half-shouting with a shaky voice, “I drew [a string of expletives] bighorn sheep!”

I’ll claim my ignorance here. I had no idea about the Jemez unit rams. I knew NM had made some great strides in bighorn conservation, but despite being an NWTF, RMEF, DU, and BHA member, I just never thought being a sheep person was in the cards. The reason I put this particular hunt as my “shoot for the moon” first choice was simple in my mind—the place I had just moved for my new job, fresh out Bighornschool, lamb from theminutes Whiskey of graduate is 30 Mountain Herd, Dubois. away from the unit (according

to OnX, it’s 14 miles as the crow flies from where I sit typing this to where I would harvest my ram). We immediately group-texted our other hunting buddies, as is our tradition on draw day. One fired back quickly with a, “Isn’t that the hunt that someone bid 1.3 million on?” I felt like I was going to puke. Why me? As my guides on the hunt, the best of the best know everything there is to know about sheep guys with Frontier Outfitting, Raul Sisneros and Iseha Conklin, (NM B&C record #3 “Mr. Clean”), would later tell me as I was first laying my hands on “Bubba” ram on that almost turning crisp 1st of September, “Why not you?” But still, I’ve had months now to grapple with the disbelief and I’m still struggling to find an answer. I’ll tell this next part in the hopes of maybe finding some justification, because to some degree, I believe I owe everything—my education, my husband, my job, my sense of self— to six years prior when I put in for my first draw tags. I’ve always loved the outdoors. From younger days in Wisconsin with permanently-scraped knees from climbing trees and muddy hands from catching bullfrogs, to making the move when I was 18 to New Mexico for college and falling deeper in love with the mountains outside my door every day. It was then that I had the opportunity and felt compelled to do something more with the strong hiking skills and sense of adventure I’d honed over the years. I joined my local volunteer wilderness search and rescue (SAR) team, where I would serve, eventually as team president and certified Incident Commander, over the next decade of my life. I’ve had several friends over these years who are full-time professional first responders or military veterans, so I always feel awkward trying to put this part of the story to words. But I also recognize that in my early adulthood, I dealt with things

many people (hopefully) never encounter in their entire lifetime. Towards the latter part of my time in SAR, I found myself facing an unavoidable truth: that I could no longer enjoy time spent outside, even in recreation, without having unpredictable moments that would shock a cold sweat all at once through my body, leaving me with a racing heart and an urgent feeling of needing to do something—even when there was nothing to be done. It’s that constant hypervigilance that comes from walking into the forest and expecting to find the worst. Whether it was one particularly bad mission, or just a culmination over the years, I had unintentionally conditioned myself to view the outdoors as a place of work, and of acute stress. I didn’t know what the outcome would be when I decided to start hunting. I just knew that I needed a change. Shortly after applying for my first hunts, I received an email from a colleague in my department inviting me to go turkey hunting with him. He’s the one I started swearing at before he could even get in a “good morni-” on that April morning as I was looking at the little green highlighted letters ‘BHS’ on my phone screen. He’ll also be the first to tell you that I’m the better hunter than him despite his decades more of experience, and he’s the one who ranged for me as I set the sights on my Browning .300 Win Mag just a little down and a little left of a hulking curl of horn glinting in that early September sunrise. Over the years in the field together chasing everything from Rio Grande turkey on the Rio Grande itself, to elk, to squirrel, to oryx—I’ve found my peace again in the mountains. I know I’ll never be able to fully quiet my alwaysturning mind, but I can redirect those thoughts now. I’ve learned that I can pick apart every shadow under a ponderosa pine or thicket

of sagebrush and anticipate not dread, but the thrill of finding a target buck. Scanning in front of my feet as I move through the desert has me not trying to match boot patterns, but notice the two slight dimples of a javelina track or frenzied looping patterns of little quail feet in the sand. Even when it’s not hunting season, I look to the landscape and scan, not compulsively, but to take in the details of potential forage, routes of travel and bedding, places I might glass. Even on the hardest days when a stalk is blown, howling wind pricks tears at my eyes, or it’s six miles and 2,000 ft up back to the truck, I breathe it all in and savor time spent in these wild spaces. And when that dusky haze of dawn slowly lifted up the steep hillslope, past red jagged boulders thrust from a 1.23-million-year-old volcanic eruption, past the still charred stumps from the fire that scarred this landscape 14 years ago, and past a small group of sheep slowly rising from their beds onto the tawny broad back of a ram that was about to be mine—I tapped into that hard-earned confidence from my past as I pulled the trigger on a clean 200 yard shot that rang across the canyon. Perhaps I’ll find the words for more details of the sheep hunt itself, but when I was asked to give a write-up, this is what came to heart. I am so indebted to be part of this incredible story of conservation, and I want to share my gratitude to the hunting community, the Wild Sheep Foundation (I’m a proud member now), and the men and women who’ve dedicated themselves to ensure these opportunities are available and that sheep thrive on the mountain. I know I’m not the only one who’s felt that the course of their life has been changed by hunting, and what better physical testament is there than the grit and enduring majesty of a Rocky Mountain Bighorn ram. WS SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 99

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W I L D S H E E P F O U N D AT I O N

HOT DEALS. COOL GEAR WSF SHEEP SHOP JON SCHROEDER

⊳ Bighorn USA Flag Shirt

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PUTTING AND KEEPING WILD SHEEP ON THE MOUNTAIN ®

Your purchases not only show your support wild sheep conservation, the proceeds actually help WSF enhance wild sheep populations, promote scientific wildlife management, educate the public and youth on sustainable use and the conservation benefits of hunting while promoting the interests of the hunter. Visit the Sheep Store at www.wildsheepfoundation.org

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⊳ Leather Patch Hat

$35

CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME

R E N O, N V | F E B R U A R Y 3 -6 , 2 0 27 | W I L D S H E E P F O U N DAT I O N SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 103

ART/BRONZES

TOM MANSANAREZ SIGNED FNAWS PRINT SET DONOR: Jim Hoeffler & Karyn Warner Value: $1,200 | 100% FULLY DONATED A2

“ONE WITH THE MOUNTAIN” CHADWICK RAM BUST & SOLID OAK PEDESTAL DONOR: Alberta WSF & The Estate of Randy & Marilyn Ward Value: Priceless | 100% FULLY DONATED

“INDOMITABLE SPIRIT: WARRIOR OF THE RIDGE” ORIGINAL ART DONOR: Lasha Fine Art Value: $4,500 | 100% FULLY DONATED A4

“ACORN RIDGE” BRONZE SCULPTURE DONOR: Summit Life Member: Tom Grimes Value: $1,900 | 100% FULLY DONATED A5

“METAL ART - STONE’S SHEEP SCENE” METAL ARTWORK DONOR: Montana Plaques Value: $5,500 | 100% FULLY DONATED

SAMPLE OF WORK A5

SAMPLE OF WORK

A10

“THE KING” ORIGINAL OIL PAINTING DONOR: Kevin Alderson-Smith Value: $10,000 A7

“CONCUSSIONS” ORIGINAL CHARCOAL OF 2 RAMS FIGHTING DONOR: Derek Stevenson Art Value: $10,000 A8

“TIME TO LEAVE” ORIGINAL OIL PAINTING DONOR: Kevin Alderson-Smith Value: $8,000

ONE-OF-A-KIND LOST WAX ORIGINAL BRONZE: CUSTOM SCULPTURE DONOR: Justin Young Fine Arts

100% FULLY DONATED A10

“TAHOE BEAR” LIMITED EDITION BRONZE DONOR: Joshua Tobey Studios Value: $2,000 | 100% FULLY DONATED A11

“STANDOFF AT WOLVERINE RIDGE” WILDLIFE PAINTING DONOR: The Devine Gallery Value: $2,500

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A11

BIRD HUNTS B1

3-DAY TURKEY HUNT: WASHINGTON DONOR: Hills and Highwater Adventures Value: $1,500 | 100% FULLY DONATED B2

5-DAY UPLAND GROUSE HUNT: ONTARIO DONOR: Kap River Outfitters Value: $4,000 B3

2-DAY/2-NIGHT UPLAND BIRD HUNT W/ LICENSED FALCONER HUNT DONOR: The Peregrine Fund Value: $3,000 | 100% FULLY DONATED B4

5-DAY WATERFOWL HUNT & WINE TASTING ADVENTURE: NEW ZEALAND DONOR: Blackstone Outfitters NZ Value: $10,000

3-DAY/3-NIGHT DOVE HUNT: ARGENTINA DONOR: Norte Hunters Value: $4,720 | 100% FULLY DONATED B6

3-DAY WATERFOWL & SANDHILL CRANE HUNT: ALBERTA DONOR: Ameri-Cana Value: $3,250 | 100% FULLY DONATED

FISHING TRIPS B7

COASTAL SALMON & HALIBUT FISHING: BRITISH COLUMBIA DONOR: Hook’n Them Up Fishing Charters Value: $4,905 | 100% FULLY DONATED

6-DAYS IN ZIHUATANEJO, MEXICO WITH 4-DAYS OF FISHING FOR 1 ANGLER: MEXICO DONOR: Lad Shunneson Adventures & Ken Wilson Consultant Value: $5,350 | 100% FULLY DONATED

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 105

FIFTY YEARS. ONE MISSION.

ew pursuits demand more from a hunter than sheep hunting. Steep terrain, unforgiving weather, and the pressure of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity have forged a tradition of carrying firearms worthy of the challenge. As the Wild Sheep Foundation celebrates its 50th Anniversary, we’re honoring that tradition in a way befitting this historic milestone. Introducing Guns of the 50th—an extraordinary collection of custom, one-of-akind firearms created exclusively for Wild Sheep Foundation by some of the most respected gunmakers in the world. Each piece is a masterwork of craftsmanship, built to commemorate five decades of conservation success, hunting heritage, and the unwavering commitment of the wild sheep community.

MASTERWORKS BY THE WORLD’S FINEST GUNMAKERS

In the coming issues of Wild Sheep magazine will feature these exceptional firearms and the stories behind their creation. Every gun in the collection will be offered through live auction or raffle during the 50th Sheep Show® in Reno, providing collectors, hunters, and conservationists a rare opportunity to own a truly unique piece of Wild Sheep Foundation history.

BID. WIN. CONSERVE. World Record Dall’s Ram 189 6/8” B&C Harry L. Swank 1961

Photo Courtesty of:

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CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME

INTERNATIONAL HUNTS C1

5-DAY IBERIAN MOUFLON, RED DEER, OR FALLOW DEER HUNT: SPAIN DONOR: Spanish Mountain Hunts & The Conklin Foundation | Value: $12,700 C2

5-DAY SPANISH BIG GAME HUNT FOR 2 HUNTERS AND 2 NON-HUNTERS DONOR: The Iberian Hunting Experience Value: $12,700 C3

4-DAY MOUFLON OR FALLOW DEER HUNT: SPAIN DONOR: Huntinspain Value: $11,160 C4

3-DAY IBERIAN MOUFLON HUNT: SPAIN (<1 ICLUB) DONOR: Herederos Hunting Value: $6,900 | 100% FULLY DONATED C5

5-DAY KUDU BULL HUNT: SOUTH AFRICA DONOR: Chasseurs de Moçambique Value: $6,450 | 100% FULLY DONATED C6

5-DAY BULL TAHR HUNT: NEW ZEALAND (<1 ICLUB) DONOR: Blackstone Outfitters NZ Value: $11,000 | 100% FULLY DONATED

MERCHANDISE C7

WSF 50TH ANNIVERSARY FLINT & FLAME CLEAVER DONOR: Flint & Flame, LLC Value: $500 | 100% FULLY DONATED C8

INSULATED STATIC V LUXE SL SLEEPING PAD DONOR: KLYMIT Value: $160 | 100% FULLY DONATED C9

C10

C11

DALL SHEEP HORN VASE DONOR: WYO Backcountry Decor Value: $1,000 C10

SINGLE SHEEP HEAD CHANDELIER DONOR: WYO Backcountry Decor Value: $4,500 C11

THE GLAMPING EXPERIENCE — HARD TOP LUX WAGON DONOR: Conestoga Wagon Company Value: $95,000 SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 107

MERCHANDISE CONT.

TROPHY ROOM CLEANING & RESTORATION PACKAGE DONOR: Headhunter Trophy Care LLC Value: $4,250 | 100% FULLY DONATED D2

CUSTOM COLOR PACK HORSE PACKAGE DONOR: Custom Pack Rigging Ltd. Value: $2,250 | 100% FULLY DONATED

THE TACTICAL T-4-16-HD CUSTOM SERIES DONOR: TACTICAL HEARING Value: $4,000 D4

CUSTOM NA WILD SHEEP REPLICA DONOR: WYO Backcountry Decor Value: $3,000

3-YEAR ELITE ZERO OUTFITTER FEES MEMBERSHIP DONOR: Diamond Outfitters / Zero Outfitter Fees | Value: $2,991 D5

REVERSIBLE SHEARED MINK & LAMBSKIN STROLLER DONOR: William Furs | Value: $5,000

DEMI-BUFF MINK SWING STROLLER DONOR: William Furs | Value: $5,000

NATURAL RANCH MINK & FOX STROLLER DONOR: William Furs | Value: $5,000

CRYSTAL FOX SECTIONED JACKET DONOR: William Furs| Value: $5,000

D10

FULL-LENGTH SHEARED NUTRIA COAT DONOR: William Furs | Value: $4,000

N. AMERICAN HUNTS D11

5-DAY ARIZONA COUES DEER HUNT FOR 4 HUNTERS: ARIZONA DONOR: Diamond Outfitters Value: $45,000 D12

MEXICAN FIGHTING BULL & EXOTIC SAFARI: MEXICO DONOR: El Milagro Ranch Value: $15,000 | 100% FULLY DONATED 108 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

D11

D12

D10

12-DAY SPRING KODIAK ISLAND BROWN BEAR HUNT: ALASKA DONOR: Rohrer Bear Camp Value: $40,000 E2

10-DAY SPRING GRIZZLY BEAR & WOLF HUNT: ALASKA DONOR: Midnight Sun Safaris Value: $28,000 E3

5-DAY/4-NIGHT BLACK BEAR AND SHRIMP EXPEDITION: PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND DONOR: Enchantress Expeditions Value: $30,000 E4

10-DAY COASTAL BROWN BEAR HUNT: ALASKA DONOR: Bushwhack Alaska Value: $32,500 E5

5-DAY BLACK BEAR HUNT: ONTARIO DONOR: Kap River Outfitters Value: $5,000 E6

10-DAY FALL MOUNTAIN GOAT HUNT: BRITISH COLUMBIA DONOR: Kildala Adventures, Ltd. Value: $25,000 E7

7-DAY ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK HUNT: BRITISH COLUMBIA DONOR: Mountain Rain Adventures Value: $15,000 | 100% FULLY DONATED E8

ALASKA YUKON MOOSE BACKPACK HUNT: NORTHWEST TERRITORIES DONOR: Nahanni Butte Outfitters Value: $36,000 E9

ELK HUNT WITH A MISSION - 370”+ BULL ELK HUNT: NEW MEXICO DONOR: Four Daughters Ranch Value: $50,000 E10

E10

E11

5-DAY COUES DEER HUNT: ARIZONA DONOR: Let’er Rip Outfitter & Guide Service | Value: $6,000 E11

5-DAY TIMBERWOLF HUNT: ONTARIO DONOR: Kap River Outfitters Value: $6,000

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 109

NORTH AMERICAN HUNTS CONT.

F10

3-DAY/2-NIGHTS AMERICAN ALLIGATOR HUNT: FLORIDA DONOR: God’s Country Outfitters Value: $10,100 | 100% FULLY DONATED F2

7-DAY SITKA BLACKTAIL DEER AND SEA DUCK HUNT: KODIAK ISLAND DONOR: Enchantress Expeditions Value: $30,000 F3

10-DAY LA PALMOSA DESERT SHEEP HUNT: MEXICO DONOR: La Palmosa - Hunting Outfitter Value: $80,000 F4

10-DAY ALASKA-YUKON MOOSE HUNT: ALASKA DONOR: Freelance Outdoor Adventures Value: $50,000 F5

13-DAY STONE’S SHEEP HUNT: BRITISH COLUMBIA DONOR: Scoop Lake Outfitters Value: $110,000 F6

12-DAY DALL’S SHEEP, WOLF & WOLVERINE HUNT: NORTH WEST TERRITORY DONOR: Gana River Outfitters Ltd. Value: $65,000 F7

5-DAY ARIZONA MOUNTAIN LION HUNT WITH HOUNDS: ARIZONA DONOR: Diamond Outfitters Value: $9,000 F8

6-DAY MOUNTAIN LION HUNT: ARIZONA DONOR: Dieringer Outfitters, LLC Value: $8,500 F9

3-DAY WHITETAIL DEER HUNT: KENTUCKY DONOR: Jeff Lindgren and Kevin Rinke Value: $8,500 F10

7-DAY ARIZONA ARCHERY MULE DEER HUNT: ARIZONA DONOR: Big Chino Outfitters Value: $12,500

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5-DAY MULE DEER, WHITETAIL, WOLF AND COYOTE HUNT: ALBERTA DONOR: Garrett Bros Outfitters Value: $14,000 G2

6-DAY BLACK BEAR HUNT & FISHING TRIP: BRITISH COLUMBIA DONOR: Mountain Spirit Outfitters Value: $10,450 G3

5-DAY COLUMBIA BLACKTAIL DEER & COASTAL BLACK BEAR HUNT: OREGON DONOR: Spoon Creek Outfitters Value: $10,500 | 100% FULLY DONATED

TAXIDERMY G4

LIFE-SIZE FNAWS - (4) WILD SHEEP W/HABITAT DONOR: Cedar Mountain Taxidermy, LLC Value: $37,440 G5

LIFE-SIZE WILD SHEEP MOUNT WITH HABITAT AND BASE: WYOMING DONOR: Deer Creek Wildlife Value: $11,100 G6

LIFE-SIZE NORTH AMERICAN SHEEP MOUNT DONOR: The Wildlife Gallery Value: $6,500 | 100% FULLY DONATED

TRIPS G7

EXCLUSIVE 5-DAY/5-NIGHT “BIG 5” PHOTO SAFARI: SOUTH AFRICA DONOR: Matthew Greeff Safaris Value: $7,700 G8

5-DAY/4-NIGHT GLACIER TOUR: PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND DONOR: Enchantress Expeditions Value: $30,000 G9

EXCLUSIVE 4-DAY/3-NIGHT ADVENTURE AT LA PALMOSA FOR SIX: CUARTO CIÉNEGAS, MEXICO DONOR: La Palmosa Value: $14,500 | 100% FULLY DONATED

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 111

PHOTO ESSAY

Selections from the 38th Duncan Gilchrist Photo Contest The Wild Sheep Foundation’s Annuli Photo Contest continues to showcase the remarkable places, wildlife, and people connected to wild sheep conservation. Each year, we receive an incredible volume of submissions—far more outstanding images than we can possibly recognize through the contest alone. The depth and quality of those photographs inspired this new photo feature in Wild Sheep® magazine, giving us the opportunity to share more of the compelling moments captured by our community in the field. Looking ahead to next year’s contest, we’ve SPONSORED BY

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refined the categories to better reflect the stories behind the images. Photographers can submit to Live Sheep and Goats (North American and international), Hunter in the Field (packing in or out, camp life, and field photos), Sheep Country (mountain hunting scenery and landscapes), and Wildlife (species other than wild sheep and goats). The 39th Duncan Gilchrist Annuli Photo Contest is now open—scan the QR code on the top of this page to submit your images and share the landscapes, wildlife, and experiences that define your time outdoors. WS

BEARTOOTH BILLY BY ADAM BOWEN (OPEN)

High in the Beartooth Mountains along the Wyoming–Montana border, I found a small group of mountain goats moving across a ridgeline surrounded by wildflowers in bloom. As I watched them travel through the alpine terrain, I envisioned one goat perfectly aligned with the lake far below. After hiking into position and waiting patiently, the scene finally came together just as the sun dipped toward the horizon and one goat stepped exactly into the frame I had imagined. SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 113

114 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

THE KING OF WATERTON BY WADE AEBLI (LIVE SHEEP)

A few days before Christmas 2020, I made the drive from my home in the Crowsnest Pass to Waterton Lakes National Park hoping to see the legendary “King of Waterton” again. What followed was one of the most incredible wildlife experiences I’ve ever witnessed. The King and three rival rams spent more than two hours battling over a ewe in second estrus. This image, captured with my Sony RX10 IV, shows the King during one of the final rutting battles of his life. He died in March 2021 and is now preserved at the Waterton Visitor Centre.

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 115

FAMILY MATTERS BY BILL BAYLISS (HUNTER WITH TROPHY):

Bob Graf poses with his sons, Ryan and Kevin, and the ram he harvested in southeastern Oregon in 2021. Living in southwestern Oregon, every scouting trip began with a seven-hour drive to sheep country. This ram was spotted on the first scouting trip, but several more followed in search of something bigger. In the end, they returned to the ram that first caught their attention. After a 45-minute stalk, Bob made a perfect one-shot harvest, sharing a memorable sheep hunt with his sons.

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SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 117

HAZY HUNT DAZE BY JAMIE ZAMORSKY (HUNTER IN FIELD)

Late in the 2025 Alberta bighorn sheep season, I was in my first year as a licensed guide with Garrett Bros Outfitting, learning from Pat Garrett’s wealth of knowledge and experience. Before daylight, four of us saddled our horses and climbed to a mountaintop for a day of glassing. Within minutes of settling in, the mountain was swallowed by fog. In the stillness of the whiteout, I pulled out my camera and captured this scene—a reminder that the journey, patience, and mountain itself are often the most memorable parts of a hunt.

SUMMER 2026 2026 118 WILD S HEEP® ~ SPRING

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 119

BASECAMP DISPATCHES NEW LIFE MEMBERS Michael Abbott Tyler Barreira Charles Bartlett Caitlyn Baxter Jack Blewett Sandra Booth Ken Calkins Gene Capinas Charles Carpenter Richard Charlton Lori Conklin James Conover Jozie Coy Jack Culpepper Dustan Currier Christiaan Davis Brogan Didier Casey Dinkel Joseph DiPietro Tucker Drury Mark Esau Todd Fisk Michael Foster David Fredston Fred Garing Nick Gerritsen Kyle Gisler Zach Goldman

Whitehorse Keremeos Denver Palmer Lewiston Millersville Salcha North Las Vegas Wasilla Helena Eagle River Cape May Cody College Station Fairbanks Midland Chetwynd Palmer Darnestown Eagle River Casper Cypress Eagle River Bozeman Crested Butte Wasilla Sandy San Diego

YT BC CO AK ID PA AK NV AK MT AK NJ WY TX AK TX BC AK MD AK WY TX AK MT CO AK UT CA

CAN CAN USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA CAN USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA

Keith Granberry Connor Hassig Keith Hayduk Christopher Hoffmann Saydee Jackson Travis Jones Tim Kastenholz Sydney Kelso Carl Kohntopp William Kramer Justin Krull Theodore Labedz Kevin Larson Rick Leibold Dwayne Martin Logan McMurrey Guy McRee Chris Meyer Ryan Moody Jordan Morris Matthew Moses Steven Mould Dennis Myers Anthony Nicholas Zachary Nicholas Trever Nickerson Amy Noss Wade Ovard

Anchorage Woodville Vegreville Saint Louis Eagle River Broadview Wasilla Graham Willow Bellingham Elbert Fairborn Heyburn Oxford Madrid Eagle River Cumming Eagle River Anchorage Ukiah Chehalis Fredericksburg Sparks Warsaw Warsaw Palmer Wernersville Santa Clara

AK USA TX USA AB CAN MO USA AK USA MT USA AK USA WA USA AK USA WA USA CO USA OH USA ID USA PA USA NE USA AK USA GA USA AK USA AK USA CA USA WA USA TX CAN NV USA IN USA IN USA AK USA PA USA UT USA

Kevin Parrott Christopher Peatros Steve Perrins Peg Petersen Adam Reese Lee Ricks Paul Ritz Robert Rodriguez Michael Rust Michael Schneider Eugene Segrest Kodee Smith Ty Spady Gary Stevens Richmond Sturgill Aaron Sullivan Craig Tankersley Eric Tanner Chris Tingley Timothy Trochanowski Ben Van Alstine Olivier Verriez Luke Voss Jordan Wallace Dana Wares Chad Yenchesky

Lancaster Lafayette Anchorage Prineville Omaha Helena Anchorage Anchorage Boise Prince George Southlake Jackson Alliance Chugiak Roseburg Grass Valley Pendergrass Zionsville Garden City River Edge Wasilla Hardelot Morrison Wasilla Richmond De Pere

OH CA AK OR NE MT AK AK ID BC TX CA AB AK OR CA GA IN MI NJ AK CO AK CA WI

CAN USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA CAN USA USA CAN USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA FRA USA USA USA USA

San Jose San Jose San Jose Pixley League City San Andreas

CA CA CA CA TX CA

USA USA USA USA USA USA

NEW SUMMIT LIFE MEMBERS Darren Boudreaux Ken Calkins Richard Charlton David Fredston David Geelan Easton Harrold Raymond Haselip

New Roads Salcha Helena Bozeman Salem Midland Hydesville

LA AK MT MT OR TX CA

USA USA USA USA USA USA USA

Tyler Higgins Cory Higgins Guy McRee Henry Noss Scott Osmera Christopher Peatros Shelley Plymale

Lafayette Walnut Creek Cumming Wernersville Omaha Lafayette Castle Rock

CA CA GA PA NE CA CO

USA USA USA USA USA USA USA

Dan Smith Daniel Smith Daniel Smith Joe Vander Poel Nathan Wallace Charlene Winkler

WE GIVE CAMPAIGN UPDATE

t the request of WSF supporters and consistent with the 2% for Conservation program of which WSF is a Founding Partner, we have launched the WSF Conservation Revolving Fund “We Give” campaign. Watch for WSF “We Give” partners who proudly include the “We Give” logo in their advertisements and/or promotions as those advertisers, exhibitors and businesses give a percentage or portion of their sales to the WSF Conservation Revolving Fund. 100% of WSF Conservation Revolving Fund contributions are directed to initiatives benefiting wild sheep and the habitat they call home. Proceeds are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law and are directed to Grant In Aid and other specific conservation projects to Put and Keep Wild Sheep on the Mountain.

120 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Participants to date include:

1. Jack Atcheson & Sons 2. The Journal of Mountain Hunting 3. The Wildlife Gallery 4. Backcountry BC and Beyond, Ltd. 5. Stone Glacier 6. RPS Bancard, LLC 7. YETI 8. SITKA Gear 9. Benchmade Knives 10. Kenetrek 11. Full Curl Spirits 12. RMP Rifles 13. 5.11 Tactical 14. Best of the West/Huskemaw Optics 15. Clarke—“1% For Tomorrow” 16. Brown Precision 17. Diamond Outfitters of Arizona 18. Black Rifle Coffee 19. Eventgroove 20. iHunt Apparel

For more information and to become a part of the “We Give” team, please contact Gray N. Thornton at 406-404-8750 or gthornton@

wildsheepfoundation.org

THANK YOU SPONSORS! BIGHORN

$5,000

$2,500

DESERT

$3,000

SUPPORTER

$1,500

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 121

CHAPTERS & AFFILIATES NOTE: bold/italics font denotes a joint WSF membership Chapter/Affiliate. Membership in these chapters and affiliates include membership in Wild Sheep

FOR COMPLETE CONTACT INFORMATION GO TO: www.wildsheepfoundation.org/memberships/chapters-and-affiliates

CHAPTERS: ALASKA WSF Kevin Kehoe, President 907-441-6323 president@akwildsheep.org

OREGON WSF Craig Foster, President (541) 219-9202 clfoster219@gmail.com www.oregonfnaws.org

Blackfeet Fish & Wildlife Gerald “Buzz” Cobell, Director 406-338-7207 gcobell@blackfeetnation.com http://blackfeetfishandwildlife.net/

Navajo Nation Department of Fish & Wildlife Jeff Cole, Wildlife Manager jcole@nndfw.org 928-871-6595

Molly McCarthy-Cunfer, Executive Director 907-615-2104 executivedirector@akwildsheep.org

SOUTHEASTERN WSF Jesse Riggleman, President 919-358-4483 jlriggleman4@gmail.com

Cody Country Outfitters and Guides Association Lee Livingston 307-527-7416 Livingston@tctwest.net

Nebraska Big Game Society Jim King (402) 430-6566 jim@glsbinc.com www.nebiggame.org

WSF ALBERTA Mike Smith tel:403-700-7746 mike@wsfab.org www.wsfab.org

UTAH WSF Travis Jenson, President 801-641-5453 tjenson@xmission.com www.utahwsf.org

Colorado Outfitters Association Kelly Nottingham, Office Manager 970-824-2468 office@coloradooutfitters.com www.coloradooutffiters.org

Nevada Bighorns Unlimited Evan McQuirk, DVM, President 775-224-5264 emcquirk@hotmail.com www.nevadabighornsunlimited.org

WSF ALBERTA Chapter Office Deena Arychuk, Chapter Staff info@wsfab.org 403-845-5544

UTAH WSF Admin Hadli Sorenson, Executive Director 435-840-0786 hadlisorenson@gmail.com www.utahwsf.org

Crow Tribal Fish and Game Ryan Fitzpatrick 406-679-0395 Emerson_bc@hotmail.com www.crow-nsn.gov/fish-and-game-comm.html

Nevada Bighorns Unlimited, Fallon Jay Lingenfelter, President jay.lingenfelter@cccomm.co 775-427-1254

CALIFORNIA WSF Donald C. Martin, President 310-766-3921 Don-martin@earthlink.net

WASHINGTON WSF Garrett Grant, President grant16garrett@hotmail.com www.washingtonwsf.org

Custodians of Professional Hunting & Conservation—South Africa Adri Kitshoff-Botha +27 0 83 6500442 ceo@cphc-sa.co.za www.thecustodians.co.za

CALIFORNIA WSF Chapter Office Beverly Valdez, Chapter Staff 650-472-3889 forthesheep@gmail.com www.cawsf.org EASTERN CHAPTER WSF Henry Noss, President Noss-s.mt.redbones@olive.com 610-223-8798 EASTERN CHAPTER WSF Chapter Office Bill Carter, Office Manager info@ecwsf.org and bill@ecwsf.org 814-656-1831 www.ecwsf.org IDAHO WSF Triston Warner, President Live2hunt13@hotmail.com 208-604-2244 Tracy Rowley, Chapter Staff 208-345-6171 info@idahowildsheep.org www.idahowildsheep.org IOWA FNAWS Craig Nakamoto, President 402-650-1383 nakamoto01@sbcglobal.net iowafnaws@gmail.com www.iowafnaws.org WSF—MIDWEST CHAPTER Al Holland, President 651-492-2985 caholl@msn.com www.midwestwildsheep.com

WYOMING WSF Bralli Clifford, President 307-438-2043 bralli@wyomingwildsheep.org Wyoming WSF Chapter Office Katie Cheesbrough, Executive Director 307-399-4383 katie@wyomingwildsheep.org www.wyomingwildsheep.org YUKON WSF Spencer Wallace, President 867-689-2074 yukonwsf@gmail.com www.yukonwsf.com

AFFILIATES: 2% For Conservation Jared Frasier, Executive Director 406-221-3102 contact@fishandwildlife.org www.fishandwildlife.org Alaska Professional Hunters Association Deb Moore, Executive Director 907-929-0619 Deb@alaskaprohunter.org www.alaskaprohunter.org Alberta Outfitters Association Kevin Stanton, President 403-762-5454 aoa@albertaoutfitters.com www.albertaoutfitters.com Alberta Professional Outfitters Society Jeana Schuurmaan, Executive Director 780-414-0588 jeana@@apos.ab.ca www.apos.ab.ca

WSF—MIDWEST CHAPTER Mike Bouton, Executive Director 612-940-1979 mikeboutonmidwestwsf@gmail.com Argali Wildlife Research Center www.midwestwildsheep.com Bamgalanbaatar Sukh, Game Biologist and head of “Argali Wildlife Research MONTANA WSF Center” Alex Russell, President +976-99176580 406-570-7121 amgalanbaatarsukh@gmail.com alex@montanawsf.org Ty Stubblefield, Executive Director Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society, Inc. 406-696-3003 Sam Gorton, President ty@montanawsf.org 480-285-7155 www.montanawsf.org Samgoar15@hotmail.com MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY admin@adbss.org STUDENT CHAPTER OF WSF Association of Mackenzie Mountain Janessa Kluth, Chapter contact Outfitters 208-420-4240 Tavis Molnar, President montanastatewsf@gmail.com 867-633-4934 facebook.com/MSUWSF info@arcticred-nwt.com NEW MEXICO WSF Bear Trust International Bryan Bartlett, President Logan Young, Executive Director (575) 635-3499 406-595-6583 BartleBC@yahoo.com logan@beartrust.org newmexicowildsheep@gmail.com www.beartrust.org

122 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Elko Bighorns Unlimited Cory Mahan, Vice President 775-397-4465 cmahan@ram-enterprise.com European Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FACE) David Scallan 00353-879504563 David.scallan@face.eu www.face.eu Fraternity of the Desert Bighorn Patrick Cummings, President Patrickcummings1002@gmail.com www.fraternityofthedesertbighorn.com Fundacion De Vida Silvestre En Sonora, A.C Jacobo Artee, President 011-52-662-212-5510, 011-52-662-217-4119 jacoboartee@prodigy.net.mx Grand Slam Club/Ovis Jason Price, Executive Director 903-466-2195 gsco@wildsheep.org www.wildsheep.org Guide Outfitter Association of BC Scott Ellis, CEO 604-541-6332 ellis@goabc.org www.goabc.org Ilbirs Fund Zairbek Kubanjchbekov, Director +996 558271081 zkubanychbekov@ilbirs.com www.ilbirs.org International Caribou Foundation Cheryl Lind, Executive Director 406-404-1297 cheryl@internationalcariboufoundation.org www.internationalcariboufoundation.org

Northern BC Guides Association Craig Kiselbach, President terminusmtn@gmail.com 250-442-7103 Northern Nevada SCI Chapter Gavin Chodera, President 916-960-8518 gchodera@nnsci.com www.nnsci.com Northwest Guides & Outfitters Association Colin Niemeyer, President 250-306-8624 hunting@kawdyoutfitters.com Northwest Sportsman’s Club Nate Perrenoud 509-994-6795 www.northwestsportsmansclub.com Purkersdorfer Jagdklub Gunther Tschabuschnig, Vice President 011-43-676-496-6691 info@jagdklub.eu www.jagdklub.eu Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Donna Noel, Director of Natural Resources 775-574-0101 Ext: 17 www.plpt.nsn.us Rocky Mountain Bighorn Society Ben Ramaker (785)760-1374 benramaker@hotmail.com www.bighornsheep.org Terry Meyers, Executive Director 970-640-6892 meyers.terry@gmail.com Rocky Mountain Goat Alliance Marvin Kwiatkowski, Chairman marvin@goatalliance.org www.goatalliance.org Contact: Kendrick Chittock, Fundraising Coordinator kendrick@goatalliance.org info@goatalliance.org

Safari Club International International Professional Hunters’ Association 520-620-1220 Rob Kern, President info@safariclub.org 540-336-6359 www.safariclub.org rob@huntcon.com Sheep Hunters of the World (SHOW) https://internationalprohunters.com/ Billi Carey, Administrator Lubbock Sportsmans Club, Inc. 480-292-1674 Dan Boone, President www.sheephunters.com 806-733-0590 Shoshone & Arapaho Fish and Game dfb@sonoramfg.com Arthur Lawson, Director Mongolia Wildlife Association lawson@windriverfishandgame.com Magsarjac Erdenebat, Executive Director www.windriverfishandgame.com mongolwildlife@gmail.com Society for the Conservation of Montana Outfitter & Guides Association Bighorn Sheep Will Israel, Executive Director Steve Marschke, President 406-449-3578 310-339-4677 info@mogamt.org info@sheepsociety.com www.montanaoutfitters.org www.desertbighorn.org National Bighorn Sheep Center Amanda Verheul, Executive Director 307-455-3429 amanda@bighorn.org www.bighorn.org

Spanish Professional Hunters Association Bruno Rosich 346-559-01611 Bruno@TrophyHuntingSpain.com www.spanishprofessionalhunters.com

Tahltan Guide Outfitters Association Rudy Day, President 250-235-3395 Dayrudy84@gmail.com Taos Pueblo Michael Martinez, Hunt Manager 575-758-7410 hunting@taospueblo.com Texas Bighorn Society Clay Brewer, President 325-792-4177 Claybrewer1@outlook.com www.texasbighornsociety.org TBS Administrator Kathy Boone, Office Admin O: 806-745-7783 C: 806-438-3939 kboone@sonoramfg.com The Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon (CTWS) Camille Brooks 541-553-2029 Camille.brooks@ctwsbnr.org https://warmsprings-nsn.gov The International Council of Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC) Sebastian Winkler office@cic-wildlife.org https://www.cic-wildlife.org/ Wildlife Stewardship Council John Henderson, President sirjohn55@gmail.com wildlifestewarship@gmail.com www.wildlifestewardshipcouncil.com Wild Sheep Society of British Columbia Greg Rensmaag, President 604-209-4543 Rensmaag_greg@hotmail.com Wild Sheep Society of British Columbia Office & Staff Kyle Stelter, CEO 250-619-8415 kylestelter@gmail.com www.wildsheepsociety.com Hana Erikson, Executive Assistant 604-690-9555 exec@wildsheepsociety.com Wyoming Outfitters & Guides Association Jeff Smith, President 307-265-2376 wyoga@wyoga.org www.wyoga.org Yukon Outfitters Association Mac Watson, President 867-668-4118 (Office) info@yukonoutfitters.net www.yukonoutfitters.net Yukon Outfitters Association Staff Shawn Wasel, Executive Director 780-213-4301 (Cell) swasel@mcsnet.ca Brenda Stehelin, Office Manager info@yukonoutfitters.net

TECHNICAL/ ADVISORY AFFILIATES: Northern Wild Sheep and Goat Council Kevin Hurley, Executive Director 307-899-9375 info@nwsgc.org www.nwsgc.org Desert Bighorn Council Patrick Cummings, Chair Nevada Department of Wildlife (Retired) (702) 486-5127 patrickcummings1002@gmail.com www.desertbighorncouncil.com

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 123

CHAPTERS & AFFILIATES

2027 BANQUET DATES NOTE: Dates noted are as of press time. Please check C&A websites for updates. Sheep Week® Range Day.............. February 3rd ......................Reno, NV Sheep Show®................................... February 3-6.......................Reno, NV Icons of Conservation Gala..............April 21-23..............Sea Island, GA WSF C&A Summit .............................June 17-19.......Salt Lake City, UT WSSBC Jurassic Classic...................... Aug 20-22..............Chilliwack, BC

WSF CHAPTERS: Chapter

Date

Location

Date

Location

Alaska WSF......................................................... April 9-10.............................Anchorage, AK California WSF........................................................... May 1............................ Santa Rosa, CA Eastern Chapter WSF....................................... Feb. 26-27................................ Lancaster, PA Idaho WSF.............................................................March 27........................................Boise, ID Iowa FNAWS........................................................April 2-3............................ Des Moines, IA Midwest Chapter WSF.................................March 19-20..........................Minnetonka, MN Montana WSF......................................................... March 6............................... Bozeman, MT New Mexico WSF .............Conservation Permit Raffle Oregon WSF.......................................................... April 17.......................................Bend, OR Southeastern Chapter WSF...................................... TBD Utah WSF.................................................................. April 3........................Salt Lake City, UT Washington WSF.................................................March 13................................. Tacoma, WA WSF Alberta....................................................... March 5-6................................Red Deer, AB WSF Alberta – Yellowhead.................................. April 16...................................... Edson, AB Wyoming WSF....................................................May 7 & 8...................................Casper, WY Yukon WSF................................................................... TBD

WSF AFFILIATES: Affiliate

Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society....................May 15..................................Scottsdale, AZ Elko Bighorns Unlimited...................................................Feb 6.............................................Elko, NV Fraternity of the Desert Bighorn...............................May 15....................................Las Vegas, NV National Bighorn Sheep Center ......................Nov 7, 2026...................................... Dubois,WY Nebraska Big Game Society...............................February 27........................................Lincoln, NE Nevada Bighorns Unlimited......................................... April 2...........................................Reno, NV Nevada Bighorns Unlimited - Fallon.............................. TBD..........................................Fallon, NV Nevada Bighorns Unlimited - Midas ............................. TBD..........................................Midas, NV Northern Nevada SCI Chapter.................................. Feb 20...........................................Reno, NV Rocky Mountain Bighorn Society.................................May 1................................... Loveland, CO Rocky Mountain Goat Alliance........................................TBD Society for the Consv. of Bighorn Sheep.......................N/A Texas Bighorn Society........................................................ TBD.................................................... TBD Wild Sheep Society of BC – The Experience.......May 1-2......................... Prince George, BC WS Society of BC – Salute to Conservation....Feb 26-27................................... Penticton, BC

NOTE: No date listed = Date not yet determined or provided by C&A 124 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

SUMMER SPRING 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 125

WOMEN HUNT® by Rachel Ahtila Women Hunt Committee Member

CELEBRATING A GROWING COMMUNITY

t’s hard to pinpoint exactly what makes Sheep Show® so electric. Around each corner there are activities for the whole family; whether it’s your first time stepping into the convention, or perhaps are a seasoned member, whether you are taking part in the after-hours hospitality and daily events, one thing remains a constant—the buzz of seeing old friends and shaking hands with new, like-minded folks from around the world keeps people flocking to Reno!

This past January the Wild Sheep Foundation’s Women Hunt Program hosted their secondannual Beer and Bubbly Social Hour, and as if we didn’t think it could grow any more...we were pleasantly mistaken!! This complimentary reception during Sheep Show® 2026 was once again generously sponsored by the New Mexico Wild Sheep Foundation and boasted a spectacular array of items to win for the ladies who participated in our Women in Hunting® community—the

NEW! Women in Hunting® Event: Wings and Wild Places!

Experience the world-class Griffin & Howe Shooting Academy at Hudson Farm! September 12-16, 2026

annual ‘In the Field’ photo contest and story submission. Before Conservation Night kicked off, the Women Hunt and WSF staff hosted over 1,300+ attendees with their choice of a free beverage and had the chance to ‘mix and mingle’ and look on as our photo submissions were shared on the big screens in the Tuscany Ballroom foyer. The best part, every single one of the submissions for each lady was a chance to throw their name into the hat for some of our amazing prizes. In the last two years, we have been able to collect and share the stories and field photographs of over 650 submissions! On behalf of the committee, we’d like to extend an enormous amount of gratitude to the companies who made donations to our contest; giveaways to include a Weatherby 307 Alpine MDT

Receive best in class instruction in wing shooting, sporting clays, and pistol shooting, and an introduction to archery and fly fishing! Culminating in an authentic and classic driven pheasant shoot, this traditional pursuit is exhilarating. Enjoy unforgettable and elevated facilities and activities with a group of like-minded women and benefit from joining the Wild Sheep Foundation’s Women Hunt and Women in Hunting communities! An excursion not to be missed! Suitable for all experience levels.

Scan the QR code to learn more and register while spots are still available!

SPARKING ADVENTURE, CONNECTION AND INSPIRATION!

Download, listen and follow every Tuesday for a new episode! 126 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

rifle in 6.5 Weatherby RPM, a Weatherby Orion Over/Under 20-gauge shotgun, a completely custom Mathews Archery Inc. bow, a Silencer Central Banish 30 Gold-V2 Suppressor, and the many generous prizes and goodies from our friends at Alaska Fur Gallery, Twisted North Design, the Peppermill Resort and Casino, and Nocona Belt Co.! To every single one of you that

wrote in and celebrated alongside of our ever-growing community— our hats are off. As we all head out to the field, we wish you all a fantastic year out doing what you love in the great outdoors and look forward to celebrating with you this coming winter. To be featured, or catch up with members, be sure to check our #womenhuntwednesday and check in with our highlights of the

#womeninhunting community. Be sure to check back this winter when we launch our third submission contest! All are welcome to join us Thursday at 5:00 p.m. in the Tuscany Foyer at the Peppermill, ahead of the Conservation Night banquet at the 2027 Sheep Show® in Reno, Nevada! WS

JONI MARIE

Hi! My name is Joni Marie! I was born and raised in Alaska. I’m now living in Northern Arizona which has presented a whole different hunting experience for me! In Alaska my husband and I founded and ran an archery pro shop and indoor range for seven years and I was an avid bowhunter there, particularly for bears. I took black and brown bears with my bow as well as moose. In 2012, I found out when I submitted my archery brown bear to Pope and Young that I was the sixth woman on record to take a brown bear with a bow! Through our archery store I really loved to get women and kids involved in archery and bowhunting. I taught a children’s homeschool program in our range in the mornings before we opened where kids could get their PE credits for doing archery with me. I offered private lessons and group lessons for women to get involved in archery. I also took it a step further offering prep lessons for women for their first bow hunt and even took several groups of women on their first bowhunting SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 127

WOMEN HUNT® adventures for black bear and out of state group trips for turkey as well as two group trips to Africa! I also volunteered at Alaska Department of Fish and Game as a Becoming an Outdoors Woman instructor for their archery classes for eight years. I was honored to win the Alaska Safari Club Diana Award for my work in education and introduction to hunting of women and kids in the state. When I got diagnosed with a rare and quickly progressing disease, I was devastated and my husband and I decided to sell our archery store to work on our bucket lists, as well as for me to have much more time and energy to fight the disease. I was told by the doctors in Alaska that I only had about two years left, as I was the fastest progressing case they had ever seen—so we wanted to make every moment count. Through my own advocacy, tons of research, countless

doctors and specialists, adding in holistic and natural medicine options and the power of prayer and positive mind set, I have far outlived their predictions. While I do continue to fight this disease every single day and it has damaged some of my internal organs, etc.…; I have gotten that lurking “expiration date” taken off of my life and I have been able to adapt and continue to hunt, fish and continue to do many of the things that I love. It’s certainly created many challenges and can be very frustrating when your mind wants to go, go, go, and your body doesn’t cooperate! However, I’ve been able to harvest 28 big game animals with my bow and I checked off all the hunts that were at the top of my bucket list, and I’ve begun working on another! I’m quite determined that I will not let the disease “win.” We moved to Arizona to be close to the AZ Mayo Clinic specialists

for better treatment options, but it’s also presented a fun experience to seek out new species to bow hunt and fish for and to get involved with conservation groups in a new state. I also recently traveled to New Zealand and was able to harvest the last animal on my original bucket list which was a red stag with my bow. I absolutely love what you are doing with your Women Hunt Program! I love to see women discover and embrace all of the amazing things about hunting that I love. Additionally, I love the Women Hunt Rubye Mayflower Blake Legacy Fund. She worked with me on an outdoor lifestyle clothing brand that I own, but more than that, she was my sweet, hilarious friend. I love that you are carrying on something amazing in her name! She was joyful and her resilience was inspiring and the honor is well deserved. WS

CIERA JOHNSON

Hi. My name is Ciera Johnson. I graduated from the University of Nebraska in 2023 with a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife and Conservation. I will complete my educational requirements for a master’s degree in marine science from Jacksonville University (Florida) in the spring of 2025. As part of my program, I am doing a research thesis on the impact of metals on nurse sharks. I hope to have the thesis completed in early 2026 to earn my degree. I have attached a picture of some of my project work and the wildlife I get to work with as part of my program. As you might imagine from my educational pursuits, 128 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

I love all types of wildlife and hope to protect our environment and wildlife in my future career opportunities. My father joined the WSF in 2023, and attended the Sheep Show® with my mother

in 2024. He went on his first sheep hunt in July and was able to harvest a 40” Dall’s sheep late on his sixth day of the hunt in the NWT. In 2025, he is going for Stone’s sheep in BC, as well as

Dall’s sheep, moose, and caribou in NWT. I’m sure he will end up with more booked after the Sheep Show® this year. WS

SKYE HENDERSON

a 25-06 that grandpa had made him. We went out to the shooting range and practiced shooting from several positions, it felt awesome! Finally, it was opening morning, it was time and I was excited and ready to go. I was a little nervous and tired but ready! My grandpa and I drove over to where my uncle and dad were and there were eight moose standing in a swamp with one huge bull! I really didn’t see him good until he put his head up and I couldn’t take my eyes off him! I thought to myself that this

is the one. Then I finally got him in the scope, found his shoulder, and squeezed the trigger, hitting him but not bringing him down. I was so nervous and afraid I couldn’t reload fast enough, so my dad helped me work the bolt to put another shell in, then “OWW”, I yelped! I almost got my finger loaded in where the bullet was supposed to go! We finally got another shell in, and I could feel tears coming, but that didn’t stop me. The bull turned and I shot him in the chest, heard a thump, and down he went!

MY NORTH DAKOTA MOOSE HUNT My name is Skye Henderson, I am 14 years old and live in Dickinson, North Dakota. “Skye, you got a moose license!” called my grampa. I was nervous and excited and didn’t know what to think at the moment. I knew that I was very happy and very lucky! It was almost October and I needed to find the right gun and practice. My dad suggested his rifle,

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WOMEN HUNT® Everyone got up and cried. I think my dad was crying more than I was! I was so happy, scared, excited, and nervous! I got a big hug from my grandpa and then called my grandma right away because she couldn’t be there and told her I got a moose and she screamed! We all stood there for a few minutes

trying to realize the weight of what had just happened. The next day I was still amazed at what I had done. While the meat was cooling we decided to go salmon fishing and bake cookies for the landowners and the neighbors because they deserved them! We all cut up the moose in the afternoon and put it in coolers.

There is a bunch of meat on a moose! We also shared part of the meat with the landowner. I cannot thank them enough for letting me hunt and with everything they did for me and my family! That’s my story from the time when I was 14 years old and shot a moose, my first big game animal ever! WS

ELLIE HENLEY, FIELD TO FORK CLASS OF 2023 ALUMNI

I had the incredible opportunity to go black bear hunting in British Columbia, Canada, with Cass Caron, Rachel Ahtila, and Glenda Groat through Compass Mountain Outfitters, owned by Cass Caron. This unforgettable experience is one I’ll always hold close to my heart. Having minimal experience with big game hunting and never having set foot in Canada, I stepped out of my comfort zone and embraced the opportunity to join this allwomen hunting trip. Over the course of several days, I not only enjoyed the thrill of the hunt but also had the chance to witness some of Canada’s breathtaking wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, and lynx. For any woman considering big game hunting, I highly recommend experiencing an all-female black bear hunt with Compass Mountain Outfitters at least once—it’s truly empowering and inspiring. WS Meet the Wild Sheep Foundation’s Women Hunt® and RMBLF Committees: Bios and photos at: www.wildsheepfoundation.org/about/ women-hunt-committee 130 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Women Hunt® wants to hear from you! https://www.wildsheepfoundation.org/ What-We-Do/Women-Hunt womenhunt@wildsheepfoundation.org @womenhunt

@women_hunt

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 131

CULINARY CORNER by Joshua Schwencke WSF & Women Hunt® Executive Chef in Residence

WOK THE WILD: WILD GAME MEETS CHINESE TAKEOUT

hinese takeaway has long been an important part of American gastronomy—and for good reason. Ignoring, for a moment, the well-known fact that what many of my fellow star-spangled countrymen call “Chinese cuisine” often bears little resemblance to its namesake, it still holds a treasured place in our hearts. Its marriage of savory umami, sweetness, and sharp vinegar punch was exactly the kind of flavor Americans fell in love with during the 19th-century Gold Rush. Immigrants from Guangdong, many of whom had helped complete the transcontinental railroad, soon established “chow chow” eateries to feed hungry workers and miners across the American West. Faced with a lack of traditional Chinese ingredients—and the challenge of pleasing a very different American palate— Chinese cooks adapted. What emerged was Sino-American cuisine: a uniquely American culinary tradition born from necessity, ingenuity, and survival. Street-cart fare evolved into brickand-mortar restaurants complete with laminated menus, Chinese zodiac placemats, paper cartons, and the familiar lineup of soy sauce, mustard, duck sauce, and chili oil. As a young man, I would sit quietly in the back seat of my mother’s Chevy Malibu station wagon as we pulled out of the

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church parking lot on Sunday mornings. I was secretly hoping the front wheels would turn toward our local Chinese restaurant. It was a treat—something both special and familiar. Years later, when professional cooking led me toward developing menus rooted in memory and nostalgia, I realized I was far from alone in my affection for this uniquely American food tradition. My own versions eventually became more elevated, often incorporating wild game in place of domestic meats. An ode to a familiar, American comfort food interwoven with wild protein. Implementing wild game into familiar cuisine is not as simple as substituting one protein for another. Technique matters. Flavor pairing matters. Understanding the lean nature and earthy undertones of wild game makes all the difference. Many of the “gamey” flavors hunters complain about come from fat, connective tissue, silver skin, and poor handling practices. Proper trimming, complementary spices, balanced sauces, and thoughtful cooking techniques go a long way toward transforming wild game into something exceptional. Overcooking wild game does you no favors, either. Fat equals flavor, but it also acts as an insurance policy for moisture. Lean proteins lose moisture rapidly the longer they cook, turning hard-earned meat into shoe leather. That said, not all wild game should be served

medium-rare. Bear, wild boar, and wild felines such as cougar or mountain lion should always be cooked thoroughly for safety. Selecting the proper cut for this style of cooking is equally important. Back strap, sirloin, and top round all lend themselves beautifully to high-heat methods like sautéing and stir frying. Slicing against the grain further improves tenderness and keeps the meat from fighting back at the dinner table. Sino-American cuisine is one of the best gateways for hunters looking to move beyond the familiar comfort zone of chili, stew, and jerky. Rich sauces, bold aromatics, spice, and high-heat cooking offer a kind of culinary grace to wild game that many hunters overlook. One technique common in Chinese cooking is velveting—a brief marinade of cornstarch, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and seasonings that protects lean meat during cooking. When flash-fried in a ripping-hot wok, the coating crisps lightly while helping sauces cling to the meat. The result is the glossy, lacquered texture familiar to anyone who has ever eaten great takeout. This recipe is one I’ve returned to many times, often adapting it with Thai or Vietnamese influences depending on the game animal and season. Paired with fried rice and chili oil, it becomes the kind of meal that disappears quickly around a table. No chopsticks required. WS

Scan here for the Mountain to Plate Video Series with Chef Josh Schwencke

“Takeout” from Timberline Stir-Fry For Meat and Velvet Marinade 1-1/2 pounds wild sheep backstrap, venison loin, or elk sirloin 1 tablespoon light soy sauce 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon white pepper 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 egg white 1 tablespoon neutral oil

Vegetables

1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 green bell pepper, sliced 1 medium yellow onion, sliced 1 cup snap peas 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced 3 green onions, sliced Natural Oil White Sesame Seed for Garnish

Stir-Fry Sauce

1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce 2 tablespoons oyster sauce 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine 2 tablespoons brown sugar or wildflower honey 1 teaspoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil 1/2 cup rich game stock or beef stock 1 teaspoon cornstarch Whisk until smooth.

Slice the Meat Properly

Partially freeze the meat for 20–30 minutes before slicing. Cut across the grain into thin strips about 1/4-inch thick. Thin slicing is critical for the classic takeout texture and rapid wok cooking. Combine all marinade ingredients with the sliced meat and let sit for 15 minutes.

Method

Heat a wok or large cast-iron skillet until it is nearly smoking. High heat matters here. Sino-American takeout flavor comes from rapid caramelization and slight scorching around the edges. Add a thin layer of oil. Spread the velveted meat in a single layer and allow it to sear undisturbed for 45–60 seconds. Once the edges crisp, begin tossing rapidly. Cook only until lightly browned but still medium-rare inside. Remove immediately. Wild game punishes hesitation. Overcooked back strap becomes liver-like quickly. Add another small splash of oil to the wok. Stir fry the onions, peppers, mushrooms, and snap peas for 2–3 minutes over high heat until slightly blistered but still vibrant. Add the garlic, ginger, and green onions during the final minute. Return the meat to the wok. Pour in the sauce and toss continuously as it bubbles and thickens. The cornstarch from both the velvet marinade and sauce creates the glossy coating associated with classic American-Chinese takeout. Cook only another 60–90 seconds until everything is lacquered and fragrant. Finish with white sesame seeds and serve with fried rice.

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CONSERVATION EDUCATION by Ryan Brock, Ph.D. WSF Youth Education Coordinator

WILD SHEEP FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES 2026 LIFE MEMBER SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

he Wild Sheep Foundation is proud to recognize the recipients of the 2026 Life Member Scholarship, honoring outstanding students whose passion, leadership, and commitment to wildlife conservation reflect the mission and values of the Foundation. This year’s scholarship top recipients are graduate award winner Autumn Patterson and undergraduate recipient Nahush Tirumala. The Wild Sheep Foundation also awarded Alecia Woods and Daniel Highfield scholarships as well. With additional efforts brought in from the Washington and Oregon chapters of Wild Sheep Foundation, an additional $10,000 were awarded to six other students through the Jodie Sides Memorial Conservation Scholarship. These include Ty Hults, Cathryn McQuesten, Jeffery Tillery, Emilee Totino, Cailey Isaacson, and Isaac Schuler.

Graduate Scholarship Recipient: Autumn Patterson

For Autumn Patterson, a passion for wildlife conservation began long before college or professional research. As a young child, she was already rescuing bees from pools and bird baths and helping care for a koi pond built with her grandfather. Early exposure to wildlife through behind-the-scenes experiences at a local zoo sparked a fascination with conservation

134 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Autumn Patterson

that would ultimately shape her academic and professional path. That passion evolved into action throughout her undergraduate studies. Patterson participated in wildlife research programs in Africa, volunteered at a raptor rehabilitation center, contributed to invasive species research, and served in leadership positions across multiple collegiate conservation organizations. She also worked as an educator at a nature preserve, helping children connect with wildlife and the outdoors through hands-on learning experiences. Leadership has remained a defining theme throughout her career. Patterson served as President and Vice President of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at Wallace Community College, where she developed skills in team coordination, event planning, and mentorship. At Auburn University, she continued building collaborative conservation initiatives while serving in officer roles for the Society for Conservation Biology and Tigers for Tigers. Her field experience has been equally impressive. As a field lead, Patterson supervised students conducting DNA sampling and wildlife trapping procedures, learning firsthand the importance of adaptability, communication, and morale in demanding field environments. One of her most rewarding experiences came in 2023, when she led a team of 14 undergraduate students to Botswana to conduct small mammal research and vegetation surveys in the Kalahari Desert. There, she coordinated logistics,

Nahush Tirumala SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 135

guided fieldwork, and led data collection efforts in a remote and challenging landscape. Patterson is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at Texas A&M University in the Department of Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management. Her research focuses on the spatial and movement ecology of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in South Dakota, as well as giraffe movement ecology within the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA) in Africa. Spanning five countries, KAZA is the world’s largest terrestrial conservation area, and Patterson’s work aims to identify wildlife corridors and border-crossing areas that support landscape-scale conservation connectivity. As a current member of the Wild Sheep Foundation, Patterson has already demonstrated a strong commitment to conservation outreach and education. While overseeing the Bighorn Sheep Health Outreach Program in the Hells Canyon region, she incorporated Wild Sheep Foundation educational materials into community library events, using hands-on activities to engage children and families in wildlife conservation topics. Education and mentorship remain central to Patterson’s goals. She has served as a teaching assistant at three universities and conducted outreach through organizations including Quail Forever and the Asotin County Conservation Commission. One memorable experience involved leading a reptile education class for children and families, helping participants overcome fears and gain appreciation for reptiles through humor, science, and handson interaction. Looking ahead, Patterson hopes to establish a graduate studentled mentoring organization at 136 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Texas A&M University to help undergraduate students develop field skills and confidence as future conservation professionals. She also plans to expand outreach opportunities for youth and women in conservation, including participation in programs that encourage female representation in wildlife-related fields. Her long-term goal is to remain in academia as a university professor, where she can continue conducting impactful wildlife research, mentoring students, and building stronger connections between scientists and the public. Through both research and outreach, Patterson hopes to inspire future generations to value wildlife conservation, ethical outdoor traditions, and stewardship of wild sheep and their habitats.

Undergraduate Scholarship Recipient: Nahush Tirumala

Although born in the United States, Nahush Tirumala spent much of his childhood in Mumbai, India, where his passion for wildlife conservation first took root. Growing up in one of the world’s largest urban environments, he became deeply aware of the challenges surrounding humanwildlife conflict. Near his home, leopards roamed within a national park increasingly threatened by urban encroachment, bringing both danger and difficult realities for wildlife and local communities alike. Witnessing these conflicts firsthand shaped his early understanding of conservation and inspired his desire to become part of the solution. Starting his junior year at University of Arizona, he is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources with an emphasis in Wildlife Conservation and Management, along with a minor in Marine Science. Nahush has quickly distinguished himself through leadership, field experience,

research, and service. As a member of the University of Arizona Fish and Wildlife Society (UAFWS), one of the oldest studentrun organizations on campus, he immediately immersed himself in hands-on conservation work. His efforts have included removing invasive plant species on local ranches, participating in invasive turtle and bullfrog removal projects along the Santa Cruz River, and contributing to community clean-up initiatives such as the Arroyo Chico Wash restoration effort. His enthusiasm and commitment quickly earned the respect of his peers. During his freshman year, Tirumala was elected treasurer of UAFWS and has since advanced into the role of president. He also successfully led efforts for the organization to become an affiliate of the Arizona Wildlife Federation and represented the club at The Wildlife Society annual meeting. As a Peer Mentor for the School of Natural Resources and the Environment, he supports fellow students and incoming freshmen while helping organize events that strengthen community and student engagement within the college. His commitment to conservation education extends beyond the university setting. Through the prestigious Bio/Diversity Project internship, Tirumala taught middle school students about biodiversity, conservation, and environmental stewardship while balancing a full college course load. Over the course of ten weeks, he helped lead lessons, hands-on activities, and field experiences in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, helping young students better understand the importance of protecting wildlife and natural ecosystems. Tirumala has also gained valuable field and research experience through a variety of conservation initiatives. He has worked as a Herpetology Field Technician conducting invasive

species research, participated in important bird area surveys through the Tucson Audubon Society, contributed to projects with the Arizona Game and Fish Department, and even discovered a specimen of the extremely rare scorpion species during a BioBlitz event at the Santa Rita Experimental Range. His conservation experience reaches far beyond Arizona. Tirumala has participated in wildlife and habitat conservation efforts across India and Nepal, including expeditions focused on endangered red pandas in the Himalayas and work connected to conservation initiatives in Kanha National Park, Periyar Tiger Reserve, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and the Western Ghats. He has also volunteered with youth and wildlife organizations and co-founded a student-led climate action club focused on afforestation efforts and coastal clean-up projects. International conservation work continues to play a major role in his academic journey. In summer 2025, Tirumala participated in research with the Charles Darwin Foundation in the Galápagos Islands, where he assisted with marine organism collections, bivalve research, and early studies related to giant tortoise evolution. In the summer of 2026, he further expands his field experience through conservation studies in Namibia and along the AngolaNamibia border, focusing on African megafauna, indigenous conservation practices, and the complexities of human-animal conflict in the Namib Desert region. The Wild Sheep Foundation congratulates both Autumn Patterson and Nahush Tirumala on receiving the top awards for the 2026 Life Member Scholarship and looks forward to following their continued impact in the field of wildlife conservation. WS SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 137

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SHEEP SHORTS

Photo: Duncan Gilcrest

by Jeremy Bryant

HIGH COUNTRY PLANS, LOW COUNTRY RAMS

went into the 2025 sheep season with high hopes and a lot of confidence. As an Alberta resident, I’m fortunate to be able to hunt bighorns each year with an OTC tag. I was deep in the Rockies with my dad and my best pal, Leigh, and I figured we had a real chance of taking a couple of rams on opening morning. Instead, the hunt humbled me and reminded me that sheep do not care one bit about what had worked for me in years past. The first and most embarrassing blunder came after spending countless hours portioning and packing each day’s food neatly into Ziploc bags: I forgot to move it from the fridge to the truck before we left town. A couple of hours into the drive we realized, and the detour back ensured we had a particularly late start to the hike in. Next, I assumed the trail would be in decent condition, and thought the 50 km hike would take us two days. That plan unraveled at kilometer fifteen, where beaver dams and bogs turned our route into a slog. We spent opening day hiking through a forest without so much as seeing a mountain, let alone a sheep. We ended up getting to sheep country on night three—a full day

140 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

later than expected! Once in the high country, our plans continued to be thwarted— we didn’t turn up a ram for the first seven days. The issue wasn’t the spot we were hunting—the country was perfect, full of secluded valleys and free from other hunters. With calm skies, we camped high on ridges where we could glass for miles in every direction. We saw countless sheep beds, trails, and droppings. But rams were frustratingly absent.

The area we were hunting was blistering hot at the time—highs in the mid-80’s and not a cloud in the sky. I hadn’t factored this in when deciding where to hunt. I was sure that the rams would be where I’d always found them—up at the top of valleys, high in the rocks and shale. If it was up to me, I probably would have stayed there for the entire hunt, glassing my eyeballs. But my hunting partner was less stubborn, and figured the rams were

taking refuge in the timber. So, after days of sunburns and hunting in what felt like the devil’s sack, he finally convinced me. We dropped 2,000 feet of elevation, trading shale and mountaintops for dense forests and valley bottoms. The move paid off. On our first evening in the lower country, we glassed up an abundance of critters—moose, bears, whitetails and mule deer, and best of all—sheep! From our tents that night we could see more than 50 sheep in six different groups. It was clear that the sheep had abandoned the high and dry areas, in favor of the cool and shady lower country. The next day we hiked over a little knife ridge and finally spotted rams. There were four immature rams feeding in some broken timber, but as we kept watching, we caught movement in the thick forest on the opposite hillside. We sat tight for an hour, and eventually three other rams fed out of the timber and bedded at about 600 yards. We were using a Kapture Digiscope system that worked perfectly for getting steady photos of the rams, and we confirmed one of them was legal—the stalk was on! We initially thought we could drop off the back side of the knife

ridge, walk forward 300 yards, and pop back up for a shot. It would have taken only five minutes, and not much could have gone wrong. But as we started that way, we got cliffed-out. That forced us to take the long way, which also happened to be the hard way. We worked our way down the cliff chutes on the backside of the knife-ridge to a creek below. We managed to get down without more than a few scrapes and bruises, and from there we picked our way up the creek bed until we got back to the same elevation as the rams. From there, we just needed to cross a open hillside, slip into the timber, and bump over the knife-ridge to get our shot. Unfortunately, just as we were crossing the hillside, those four smaller rams fed out of the timber from just above us. We froze in place, but one of them caught our movement, and we found ourselves in a stalemate with that ram, with neither side daring to move. After 20 minutes of the ram staring right at us, we figured we needed to do something—we didn’t want to leave the legal ram for too long, and we could almost hear our skin sizzling in the sun. Knowing it was high risk, we decided to crawl, ever so slowly, to a little

gully nearby where we could duck out of sight. The gully was only fifteen yards away, but it was a punishing crawl as the shale dug into our hands and knees under the weight of our packs. I’m not sure whether we moved slowly enough to avoid drawing his attention, or whether he just felt so sorry for us as we inched our way along that he gave us a pass. Regardless, we slipped into the gully without him spooking. From there, we quickly bushwhacked up to the knife ridge and peeked over. Our ram had evidently also gotten too hot and moved another hundred yards up the hill. But he was still within range and offering a great shot. Leigh put two bullets into him, and the ram toppled. After a sufficient amount of whooping, hollering, and hugging (probably a bit more than we’d care to admit) we made our way over to the ram. One of the parts of sheep hunting that always makes me think is watching how a band reacts after the shot. In this case, the other rams scattered, then gathered again a few hundred yards up the mountain and stood watching us for nearly half an hour. I have no idea what, if anything, they understood about what had just

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 141

happened. Regardless, seeing rams linger like that always feels somber to me, and that moment has stayed with me since the hunt. When the other rams finally filtered out of the area, we got to work butchering the ram. It was nearly 80-degrees that day, and with three more hot days forecasted before we’d reached the truck, we knew meat care would be critical. Each evening, we took the meat out of our backpacks and hung it in shady spots with good airflow. Our Stone Glacier game bags held up through the rough pack-out, kept the flies off, and got the meat back to the truck in good condition. This hunt was one of feast and famine. It taught me a hard-earned lesson about staying mindful of changing conditions and being willing to adapt when plans fall apart. And like all good hunts, it left me grateful for time in the mountains and good friends to share it with. WS

Jeremy Bryant is an avid backcountry hunter, conservationist, and proud Albertan. When he’s not looking over

ridges for his next adventure, he’s busy building companies and trying to keep up with his young family.

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SHEEP SHORTS

Photo: Duncan Gilcrest

by Mary Scott

WHERE THE MOUNTAINS MADE ME

he first light of morning has always felt like a promise. Long before I ever carried a tag in my pocket or learned to read the wind, I was a barefoot kid—wild-haired, dirt-covered, and always outside. The trees and fields were my playground, the creeks my ocean. Hunting came later, revealing itself as something deeper than I ever expected. I’m still new to big game, still learning the quiet discipline of moving with—not against—the rhythms of the wild. My early successes felt like milestones as much as blessings: first a mule deer, then a whitetail, each one teaching patience, respect, humility, and gratitude. Then this year, something extraordinary happened. I drew my first LEH bighorn sheep tag in British Columbia. Hunting the rugged peaks of the Erickson with my husband at my side, I was fortunate to harvest a magnificent 195 6/8 ram. It didn’t come easy. We ran out of water, got cliffed out after dark, and endured a brutally heavy packout. The hunt pushed me to what I thought were my limits—until I discovered I could go much further. A 154-yard shot sealed it on a ram that had eluded us on opening day. 144 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

It wasn’t until a return trip in late September that he showed himself again. Even now, thinking about it fills me with reverence. It wasn’t just a hunt—it was a moment shaped by years of love for the outdoors, hard-earned lessons, and the quiet courage it takes to grow into who you’re meant to be. Looking ahead, I feel the same

excitement I once did running barefoot through the grass. My hunting journey is still unfolding, each season bringing new challenges, deeper gratitude, and a stronger bond with the wild places I’ve loved since childhood. I can’t wait to see where it leads—the places it will take me, the animals I’ll honor, and the memories still waiting to be made. WS

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ADVENTURE PROFILES

Benjamin Spies

Species: Rocky Mountain goat Outfitter: Rising Son Outfitters Guide: Randy Petrich Location: Montana This was a once-in-a-lifetime draw with only five preference points. I had an mazing outfitter and beautiful country to hunt. We took horses and mules 15 miles back into the high country and spotted the billy day one. I filled the tag on day two. Amazing people and an outstanding adventure! WS

146 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

Dan Evenson

Kent Schauer

After a long Argo ride and a longer hike up to sheep country, we found rams on Day 3 of our adventure. We got to 100 yards of their beds and the wait was on. Unfortunately, they did not quite read the script when they stood up, so it took a couple of hours of playing cat and mouse with them until we could crawl in to 60 yards of where they were feeding. The big ram cleared the rest and the arrow hit its mark. WS

My first NA sheep hunt was over 50 years ago, and I was instantly addicted to the ruggedness, danger and beauty of it. But then I drew a desert tag in my home state last year. Two months prior to that hunt, my low back put me in bed for all of October. I could barely walk with sticks when my December hunt started. The plan was for my friend, Dave Heft, to hunt with me for the first three days of the two-week season and for my friend, Eric Rominger, to hunt with me the last three days, if necessary. Dave and I had a great time, but I did not get a shot at the only good ram we saw. That’s when I realized this would be my last sheep hunt. I decided not to hold Eric to his promise and hired Jack Diamond of Beaverhead Outfitters. At the end of the fourth day, when my back was telling me it was time to quit, Greg showed me a lone class IV ram with a recently installed collar. Knowing that the rut was on, I took a quick look and decided to take him out of the gene pool. This is my second FNAWS. WS

Species: Dall’s Sheep Outfitter: Caesar Lake Outfitters Guides: Zac Suprenant and Ben Alai Method: Archery Location:Yukon

Species: Desert Sheep Outfitter: Beaverhead Outfitting Guides: Greg McWhorter Method: Rifle Location: New Mexico

Greg Ralston

David Downey

Jordan Morris

In March 2026 I ended up with Bo Morgan and his team down in the mountains near Loreto, B.C.S., Mexico hunting a desert Weemsi bighorn. The terrain and views were spectacular and some of the coolest country I had ever seen! We spent a little over four days glassing and hiking in this awesome country and finally found a bruiser 12-year-old Weemsi ram tucked away in a towering canyon. This hunt was a promise to my dad and an outstanding adventure with good people! WS

I took my ram at 700 yards with a 6.5 WBY RPM 156 grain Berger Elite Hunter in a mountain range by the Sea of Cortez on Seri communal land. WS

I had a great stalk on a desert bighorn after spotting two rams bedded down around the 165 range. I watched them for an hour and found that there was one more ram hidden in the brush. I moved our location and waited the ram out until he stood up. All the guides told me after I shot he was “muy grande”. A great hunt and guide for my first ram. WS

Species: Desert Sheep Outfitter: Go with Bo Guides: Bo Morgan and Team Method: Rifle Location: Baja Califorinia Sur

Photo: Karl Schroeder

Species: Desert Sheep Outfitter: Desert Sheep Outfitters Guides: Elijah Anderson Method: Rifle Location: Sonora

Species: Desert Sheep Outfitter: Amigos Outfitters Guides: Gilberto Method: Rifle Location: Sonora

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 147

OFFICIALLY KICKED OUT! ep yousrignFuIRST she p to win

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The following <1 Club® or <1iClub® members have LOST their membership status by taking their first wild sheep rams! Congratulations!

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David Lynn — Dall’s sheep

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From Camp to Crest: My Journey Out of the <1 Club I arrived in camp with Dickson Outfitters on August 7, 2025. After a day of preparation, we headed up the mountain on the 9th in search of a Dall’s sheep. We left camp at 4 a.m., in the dark, and spent most of the

148 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

a steady pace until we reached the crest. Looking over the top, we could see the sheep below. They were out of range but slowly working toward us. It was already 3 p.m., so we decided to wait them out. Embarrassingly, we fell asleep on top of the mountain for a few hours, what a memory! When we woke up, the sheep were within 300 yards. We got into position and chose our ram. After finding the most comfortable uncomfortable shooting position, I took the shot. The first shot was a warning shot, but the second brought him down. We climbed down for about an hour and reached him around 10 p.m.—then the real work began. After a few photos, Tommy and Reese (our wrangler) went to work on the sheep. Of course, that’s when the rain started. We packed everything to the horses around midnight and began the long ride back. My headlamp battery was dead, too, of course. Four hours later, in the dark and rain, we made it back to camp at 4 a.m. on August 10th. The rest of the trip was spent wondering how my muscles could hurt that much, fishing, relaxing, and soaking in the incredible Yukon scenery. I’m extremely grateful to the Dickson family for a great hunt, an unforgettable experience—and for getting me kicked out of the Less Than One Club! WS David, you are Kicked Out with no warning shot!

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Kyle E. Short — Rocky Mountain bighorn

One in Ten “One year in ten boyo. One year in ten you’ll get your chance at a legal ram”. Those were the words my father first spoke to me about sheep, as I jammed my pack full of gear and headed west into the Rocky Mountains of Alberta with two of my best friends, Scott and Jared. Our spirits brimming with the confidence and optimism of youth, we were set on defying those one in ten odds. That first foray into the hills, while an adventure to remember, served as a reality check for us all. A stark reminder that the mountains though majestic and ruggedly beautiful, were also harsh and cold, bigger and harder that we could have imagined. Seven days later, descending that mountain, tired and footsore, our egos humbled, my father’s words echoed in my mind, ringing truer than I’d ever wanted to admit. “One in ten boyo”. And so it was this year, that I found myself two days before the opener once again headed west. A sheep tag in my pocket and the hope that every new opener holds, that hidden in a basin, waiting at the end of the climb, was a ram, and that this would be the year. Pulling into the trailhead, I was met with a familiar sight to many Alberta sheep hunters. Four trucks, three trailers and a bunch of hardcore looking sheep hunters, not exactly an ideal start. Luckily for me one of those hardcore hunters was my good friend and hunting partner Scott, while the others were a good crew of guys we’d met over the years of tramping around the same country. After hurried greetings and confirming that nobody was heading into where we had planned to go, we threw on our boots and packs and were headed up an old familiar trail. With camp set and after a short, grunted conversation between tents, I laid back, listening to the sound of the mountain winds whispering through the trees. Setting out from camp on August 25th after a day of storms in camp, we pushed up and out of our home basin, our pace quickened by the appearance of two

hunters newly arrived from the bottom. Our destination while no secret to some of the more seasoned locals, was a small out of the way basin that we had dubbed Hidden Basin due to the inability to see into it from anywhere in the valley below. As is common for many a sheep hunter, the band of rams I had been dreaming of seeing sunning themselves on the slopes beyond, were nowhere to be found. In fact, not a single sheep could be seen anywhere. Now, thirteen years earlier in the impatience of my youth I would have almost certainly left this seemingly lifeless basin in my dust. And so, we stayed on our ridge. As our afternoon wore on, we did manage to spot a few sheep and elk on far off ridges. I decided that a rather sheep-looking rock in our basin needed further inspection. Much to my surprise and elation, the sheep like rock was in fact a real sheep, and not just any sheep but a ram! Scrambling onto the backside of our ridge, we were hidden from the ram’s view, allowing us to quickly move into range. Reaching a large rocky prominence, we ever so slowly edged out from behind the rocks. Feeding just over four hundred yards away and oblivious to our presence, was the ram. Scott had the spotter and while he set up the tripod for a closer inspection, I gave the ram and area around a quick spot of my own. No sooner had I brought my binos up than another ram appeared, above and slightly behind the first. Focusing my attention now on this new ram, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. As I repositioned and adjusted in that small cleft in the rocks, I found myself staring down at the ram of my dreams, his horns appearing massive in comparison to the younger ram below. At 435 yards, the sheep was within range, but as he turned, giving us a side profile, I could see that while clearly mature and massive, he was broomed off. Crawling the last few yards, we came into the site of the rams, and immediately knew the gig was up. At 323 yards and facing us head on, the old rams eyes bore a hole right through me as I struggled to find a steady rest on the steep side hill. The old boy had seen enough, turning to make his way straight back up the steep shale.. Just as I thought it might be over, the ram turned, quartering back towards us one last time, and my shot was there. I watched as the ram ran, faltered, then fell, tumbling down the steep shale slope before coming to rest in the heavier rocks of the valley floor. Looking back on my sheep hunting journey that started all those years ago, I can’t say how true all the old adages and sayings are. Recalling all the hunts along my own journey, I think of my daughters. And while they have yet to ask, I look forward to the day that they come to me with questions of the mountains and sheep. I’ll smile to myself and respond like only a father would. “One in thirteen my girlies, one in thirteen.” WS You are Kicked Out Kyle, but your daughters can join! SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 149

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The Wild Sheep Foundation is excited to announce the launch of a brand-new tr !FISheep Fever podcast miniseries, “Kicked Out.” n u u Hosted by WSF Membership Manager, Maddie Richards, Kicked Out spotlights of the <1 Club who have officially h yo members eepwinand 25 conversations dive deep into what it h s been “kicked out” after harvesting their first wild sheep ram. These intimate inspiring $ o ST up t IRto means to chase a dream that often takes years, or even decades, achieve. F n r u sig define a sheep hunt. From the first spark of inspiration to o y Each episode offers a front-row seat to the trials iand triumphs that n w Kicked Out captures the emotion, R toram, the moment a hunter lays hands on their ufirst determination, and respect that makes EVE p N T sheep hunting unlike any other mountain S sign pursuit. MU Listeners will hear firsthand how preparation and perseverance come together on the mountain and how these stories fuel the passion that drives our conservation mission forward. The series also shines a light on the strength of the <1 Club® community and the shared bond that connects every sheep hunter, whether they’re still sigtheir chasing tag or celebrating a lifelong dream fulfilled. n upfirst to w in yWSF Through Kicked Out, educate, and celebrate the people who make our continues FI ST Aits mission to inspire, Su tand h wild sheep conservation possible R - one story, hunter, one at a time. rO sheeirone pt)hunt! RgST sheep humountain a nt! h -s T yJB es d u FI cl n ur Laz (i Sheep siFever Listen to Kicked Out onythe and wherever you to win yoavailable on Apple Podcasts,k.cSpotify, entr om/ gn uppodcast: om oo rs.c rrent get your podcasts. join or be a cu aceb fitte f out t) hir w T-s e des ft n clu (in tr y (inc MU 25T joientnryor YbeUKaOcurNfittreningt .com m $US MUST ludes R r.co joE in V Fem&bSeT N agea or bE e a curr T-shirt)M A Dall’s member of WSm sitk out VER of WSFsu&nNE er r mb o me f WSF ent and Fa had ghtd Ram port vested n aiwil r vR am este .com nnin sh ed a wil id d a wild & NEVE Pleaseesnueprouhar trek ers eep ene <1 Club memb D ar vest Rg s m Midn igh tS

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Erik Mohrlang — Desert sheep

ftwoutfitters.com

July 3rd 2024, I’m sitting at my desk finishing up work before the 4th. I have plans that evening, but I need to get going so I can get in my training miles in for the day. I’ve got a Dall’s sheep hunt coming in sic weeks. I get a call from a random Utah phone number. SPAM I’m sure, I answer anyway. It is Austin from Huntin Fool, he informs me I have won their raffle for a Sonora Desert Bighorn. I am in a state of total shock, and it hits me, I dreamed of one ram in my life. Now I’m going for a half FNAWS! What’s the saying? Never count your chickens before they hatch. August 28th 2024, I was in a drainage in the Alaska Range. It was the last day of a 10 day hunt. We had

150 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

lost over half the hunt to weather. In other words, I got everything I signed up for. I found myself looking at a legal ram at 700 yards. As we made the decision to crawl the final 200 yards the wind switched 180 degrees. I was heartbroken as I watched the ram I thought would kick me out trot away. I packed my <1 Club® shirt with me the entire time. I was convinced I would need it. I had a great outfitter George, and a great guide Cory. Luck just wasn’t on our side. December 12th 2025, I was on the desert floor looking up at the mountains. I hadn’t even stepped out of the pickup yet and I heard one of the guides say, “I’ve got rams, I’ve got good rams.” We were on Day 5, and had just moved ranches. We hadn’t seen much to this point of the hunt and I was letting those nasty thoughts creep into my mind. “Here we go again, coming home empty handed. AGAIN.” Not on this day. This was our day. I was told by no less than six people, sheep hunts in Mexico are easy—I ignored the two that told me to be ready for a grind. As we topped the mountain, I had sweat pouring down my face. I pulled out no less than four choya from my arms and legs. I had got blood running down my hand from a cut slipping on rocks. My friend and FNAWS holder that tagged along met me at the top with a smile and said, “Are you ready?” With an unbelievably accurate Plains Precision Firearms rifle and a whole lot of lucky shooting on my part, I had my <1 Club® ram. You can never put into words what that first ram feels like in your hands. But to those still dreaming, it is everything you think it will be and more. Thank you Old Mexico Hunting Co. A giant thank you to my guides Austin and Alex. WS Are you ready Erik? You are Kicked Out!

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SUMMER SPRING 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 151

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LET THE WILD SHEEP WORLD KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS OR SERVICE IN WILD SHEEP® MAGAZINE!

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LAST SHEEP CAMP

Joseph A. Peachey

Joseph A. Peachey, 65, of Allensville, passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. Born on August 5, 1960, in Belleville, he was the son of the late Mahlon J. and Bertha (Kurtz) Peachey. On June 5, 1980, he married Mary E. (Hostetler) Peachey, who survives at their home. Along with his wife, he is 154 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

survived by children: Jolene A. Peachey of Allensville, Monica Akins and husband Jason of Huntingdon, Juanita Peachey of Allensville; granddaughters: Makayla, Myeisha and Mariella Akins; siblings: Erma and Kore Kauffman of Adams, NY, Anna and John Lee Zook of Belleville, Linda and Luke Kurtz of Friedens, Mary and Ervin Hostetler of Belleville, Mervin and Lois Peachey

of Belleville, Jonathan and Sara Peachey of McVeytown; sister-inlaw: Rhoda Peachey of Belleville, as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a stillborn daughter, Marietta Jean Peachey and a brother, David J. Peachey. Joseph owned and operated Big Valley Hardwoods in Allensville for 32 years. He enjoyed spending time with his family and especially loved his three granddaughters. Family and friends were very important to him. He treasured his many friends. He also enjoyed hunting and being in the great outdoors. He was a faithful member of Valley View Amish Mennonite Church. His family would like to extend many, many thanks to family, friends, neighbors, churches, and community members who have extended their prayers, help, and support during his hospital stay. A viewing was held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 p.m. at Valley View Amish Mennonite Church, 110 Applehouse Road, Belleville. The funeral service was held at the same location on Friday, May 15, 2026 at 10 a.m. with Ministers Luke Kurtz, Jason Peachey, Jesse Zook and Loren Yoder officiating. Burial took place at Locust Grove Cemetery, Belleville. WS

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® ® ~ SUMMER 2026 160 W ILD HEEP 178 SSHEEP ~ FALL 2019 WILD

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Branded Rock Canyon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Raven’s Throat Outfitters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Browning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Canada North Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Rowland Ward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Canmore Archery Bighorns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

RPS Bancard, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Caprinae Safaris. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Scoop Lake Outfitters, LTD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Cervantes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Shikar Safaris. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Chadwick Ram Society®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30, 31

Shoshone Lodge Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

Conklin Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Simpson Outfitting, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Crispi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Sitka Gear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

Dallas Safari Club (DSC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

South Nahanni Outfitters, LTD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Epic Outdoors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162, 163

Stifel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

Federal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

St. James Sporting Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Full Curl Spirits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Stone Glacier. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Gana River Outfitters, LTD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Stone & Folding Mountain Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Global Rescue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Vortex Optics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

GOABC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Weatherby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Guinn Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Wild Hunting in Turkey & Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Gundahoo River Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Wildlife Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Hilleberg Tents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

Willow Creek Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Hornady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

WSF Centurion Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Huntin’ Fool. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

WSF Chapter & Affiliate Summit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Jack Atcheson & Sons, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

WSF Idaho. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Keele River Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

WSF Legacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Keep Climbing Campaign. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

WSF Sheep Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Kenetrek Boots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

WSF Wyoming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Kuiu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9

Zimmerman Wildlife Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

Legacy Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

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ON THE ADVENTURE TRAIL by Ken Nowicki

DAYS OF OLD

Still like that old time rock n’ roll

“W

That kind of music just soothes the soul I reminisce about the days of old With that old time rock n’ roll — Bob Seger

hat’s shaking?” I parked myself between Lead-On Highfee and Packtrain MacNamee at the counter in Ruby’s Café. She serves up coffee and pie befitting a front porch establishment you used to find on the main street of small towns in the rural parts of western Canada and the USA. She caters to the taste of the mountain men and women of the Kootenays. Lead-On and Packtrain never sit right beside each other at the counter, preferring to park on stools with some elbow room between them. It prevents unwanted or accidental contact between them. I am forced to take the seat in the middle and often suffer from their acerbic wit, and even physical abuse. Especially when I nettle them with questions. “What do you want, Boy?” LeadOn gave me a scowl. “Let me guess. Youse are looking for some sheep hunting tips.” “Ah, well, I guess, but I just wanted to treat you guys to some pie. And maybe, sure, you could give me some ideas where to find a big Stone ram, I guess.” I tried to be real casual the way I said it. WHACK, I got an elbow from the left. WHACK,—an elbow from the right. I just about fell of that spin-stool. And then like nothing

164 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

happened they started talking. “Boy, you want to find any big rams,” gurned Packtrain as he cleared his throat and leaned his old pock-marked schnoz up into my face close and personal, “You got to dig into the history of outfitting and find where the best of the best got sheep in the old days.” “Like the Wild Sheep® magazines? I have stacks of them dating back to nearly 50 years ago.” “Now that was the best thing ever happened to sheep outfitters,” said Lead-On. (Did he just make the sign of the Cross?) “Yup,” Lead-On pulled me to his side so he could emphasize the point. I was gripped on the seat and leaning back as he started a spit shower of pie and stale chew. “You know the foundation is turning 50 years old. Those founding fathers changed the game for outfitters. It put the spectacle on sheep like never before.” “Boy, outfitters used to have to run 21 day hunts with multiple species,” Packtrain was spinning me back onto his side and he was covered with flakes of pie on his whiskered face. “My old Pop. He run trips where them hunters got tags for sheep, goat, caribou, moose and grizzly. Imagine the cost when you had to hunt to the very end of a trip just to fill the bag?”

“And you was stuck riding it out to the full 21 days unless every tag was clipped,” shouted Lead-On. “Them hunters always wanted the full deal.” “All for 1500 bucks when I started out with my old dad. And he paid me a pittance for wages.” “The ram was always the glory game since way back, even back to the old days, but having lots of species to hunt did allow everyone to go home with something,” explained Packtrain. “Sometimes them rams were the hardest to find. But you know better than most Boy.” He was right about that. “Well I do have some old letters to show you,” I said. “I got a box of them from Jack Arnold who lives in Pennsylvania.” “I knew him,” Lead-On grabbed them for a look-see. He palmed one down with his grimy paw and whipped out his readers. “This here is from Frank Stewart. Look at the date—1966—you was in diapers.” “Let’s see them,” Packtrain shoved me out of the way. I tried to stop them but they were relentless and spreading the papers out on the sloppy counter. I was mortified because these were precious artifacts. “I got them from Jack, and he hunted with Frank Stewart in 1967 and took a Stone’s as well

as grizzly, moose, and caribou. The tab was $1575 Canadian plus trophy fees and tags and tip. Those days you could fly from PA to BC for around $500.” I further explained that Jack took a second hunt with Frank and that resulted in Frank hiring him as a guide in 1972. He also took a hunt with Chuck Hayward in the N.W.T. and soon was nominated a guide and best friend. Not many paying hunters transition into guiding, but Jack is exceptionally skilled and remains a sheep nut to this day. The correspondence he provided was with legendary outfitters of the 1960’s and they are a testimonial to those halcyon times. A 21-day hunt was the norm. Generally every hunter got tags for four or five species. “Lookee here, that’s real class,” Packtrain found the letter from G.C.G. Dalziel. His offer from 1968 to Jack was a five species hunt for only $1500 bucks the next year. Pictured in color on the heavy linen parchment are emblems of a sheep and an airplane centered with an incredible photo of a stone ram. It is a work of art and signed by the famous outfitter. The Dalziel Award initiated and sponsored by Arlene and Bob Hansen is given to honor guides that exemplify his fine qualities and skills. It is the most coveted Award at the Sheep Show®. “He was the top hand in the bush and so good at flying he started an airline at Watson Lake,” LeadOn said, himself no slouch at the joystick on a Cub. “George knew all the best country to find big rams.” On the original envelopes from many outfitters are the eight-cent stamps of the times. All of them SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 165

are on letterhead and many depict a big ram, evidence of sheep being the primary trophy. Jack retained correspondence from others including Bobby Ball from Telegraph Creek, Tom Mould at Muncho Lake Mile 463 on the Alaska Highway. And Don Peck, Tommy Walker, Chuck Hayward, and Hal Waugh in Alaska. “Listen Boy, the Dalziel Award is given to recognize guides. George was one of the very best of that time. But you know Lead-On and I were both ranked near the top of the heap.” “I earned my first stripes in Alberta and there were really no licensed outfitters. We was all guides on the papers, but we operated like an outfitter today. A few of us had a bigger crew. I had a Class “A” license. That says it all. I got class.” Packtrain smirked. He pointed at Lead-On, “And guess what our hairy friend was? He was Class “B”. He was too cheap to pay for the best license.” Whoops, the fuse was lit and I was right between to kegs of dynamite, but surprisingly Lead-On seemed quite proud of it. “There was 600 Class “A” paying 50 bucks for nothing more than a swelled chest. The 400 of us who paid $25 for a “B” could go anywhere but the mountains. I saved money and hired one of the 600 other Class “A” guides when I had a sheep hunter. Every buck counted in those days and 25 was a lot.” Incredibly Alberta had over 1000 guides in the 60s. There were no restrictions on who could take sheep other than the need to be a licensed Class A guide. In the early 70s they paired it down to around 20 outfitters for an allocated 88 bighorns. That has not changed for over 50 years. There are only 15 sheep outfits today and one of them has 16 allocations for non-resident sheep. There are still around 600 or more guides licensed for every species as needed. Outfitters sign up 166 WILD S HEEP® ~ SUMMER 2026

as many guides as the want. With only 15 outfitters taking sheep, the market is getting cornered. Prices have been rising rapidly and the sole Minister’s Permit in Alberta always sells for big money. Alberta does not grant exclusive concessions to one person for most species, but management units are used for allocating non-resident tag sheep, in basically the same numbers as back in the 70s. There is a special designation for the sheep outfitters—Class S Outfitters Over in B.C. there was a Class, “A, B, and C.” system during the 1950s, but then visionaries Don Peck and Leo Rutledge lobbied and organized a concession system. Large blocks of country were established giving control to a few qualified Class “A” guides in 1961. This allowed them to outfit with certainty and get leases for improvements like camps and airstrips. An outfitter and owner of a block would then be seriously concerned with culling predators and controlled burning to enhance wildlife habitat, not to mention horse feed. I preferred outfitting in B.C.,” chuckled Packtrain. “Even when they dropped the quotas on us, I could still grind through hunters and sell another hunt if a client got skunked. We were limited on kill but not on how many clients we could take.” “Man I wish I never sold out,” moped Lead-On. “Look at the prices they get these days. I could take a handful of clients to make what I did back in those early years.” Harvest quotas for sheep outfitters are controversial in both provinces. Residents get upset if outfitters get too big of the pie. In 2025 non-residents shot 37 rams out of 88 allocations in Alberta. That’s 40% success. Over 2176 residents only got 110 rams or 5% success. B.C. has a similar profile. More than ten times the number of residents hunt sheep than non-

residents. But non-residents account for a a high percentage of the kills. Non-residents are far more successful. “That just proves you got to hire an outfitter, Boy. You want a ram you should hunt the same areas George Dalziel outfitted. It’s the same genetics today as then. Find out who runs those areas now.” “Or you go to the ‘Ram Pasture’ in my old area,” added Packtrain. “I won the buckles many times.” “But you guys won’t be specific,” I whined. There, I actually said it —right to their faces. I got up and headed for the door on a pout. I was on the move, not exactly storming out with the letters, but still hopeful I guess. “We can’t take the fun out of it, Boy,” called Lead-On. “Come back next week and we’ll talk more.” So I paid for the coffee and pie. I’m such a sucker for punishment. But I would do most anything to get a good tip on where to find rams. WS

Editor’s Note • Nowicki reports that he is still working on getting the compulsory registrations from the first time they were required in both Alberta and BC. He is indebted to Jack Arnold for providing the correspondence from venerated outfitters from the past. He has been greatly aided in his research by reference to the Books, “THAT SOME MAY FOLLOW” by Leo Rutledge and REACHING THE DREAM, by R.G. “Garry” Vince. He hopes to compile a historical review of sheep hunting outfitters for presentation to the sheep cognoscenti attending the 50th Anniversary Wild Sheep Convention in Reno, 2027. WS

SUMMER 2026 ~WILD S HEEP® 167

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