The Life and Times of the Plume

There’s one area in Idaho where a guy and gal can hunt sharptail grouse and we were there in early October so we took full advantage of our temporary location. Sharptail can be found in the liminal space where cultivated and uncultivated land meets — in the edge country. They’re a beautiful grouse with furry feet and earthy feathers. I like hunting this bird because they live in gentle country in grassy cover and I can see every move our dog makes which is such a pleasure. The walking is easy, the sun in the grass is lovely, it’s like being on a jolly holiday. I associate sharptails with peaceful, prairie-like spaces, breezy wind, blue skies and Indian Summer.

As Tater Tot worked these grouse, I found myself wondering if he had been living in Farley’s shadow all these years. I wondered if Farley had to die for Tater to truly come into his full potential. That is the way of Kings. Tater is hunting so beautifully this year, with great composure and unfailing courage and I find myself working my heart out as I cover ground behind him. I am ignited by his efforts and getting him his birds has become all consuming when we’re hunting. I am having one of the best wing shooting seasons of my life. Every now and again, when the sun gets in my eyes, I think I see a white dog flashing through the fescue and sage and I know we’re running two dogs again…just for a moment.