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For my father-in-law, this hunt for a gold-medal alpine ibex in Austria’s Lech region was the realization of a long-held dream, continuing a family tradition that began when his father hunted chamois in these same mountains. This trip was about more than a trophy—it was about ethical hunting, respect for nature, and preserving that connection to the land.
The excitement had been building for months, but nothing could have prepared him for the experience he was about to face.
The day before the hunt was filled with excitement, preparation, and anticipation. Equipment was checked, rifles were zeroed in, and minds focused on the task ahead. Though sleep was hard to come by, the 4:30 a.m. start came swiftly. The mountains were bathed in the soft glow of dawn as we ascended the trails, knowing the real challenge lay ahead.
Stalking for hours through rocky paths, each step brought us closer to the high peaks where the ibex roamed. The quiet of the morning was interrupted only by the sound of boots crunching against gravel, our guide’s whispered instructions, and the occasional call of a Murmeltier echoing from the cliffs.
After two hours, the adrenaline surged. We spotted him—a majestic alpine ibex perched high on the steep slopes, flanked by two younger males. There was no doubt this was the one. The guide immediately assessed the situation, and we knew—this was the perfect animal to harvest.
Every step forward was calculated and cautious as the ibex stood in a precarious position. My father-in-law, calm and focused, displayed his experience and patience. The shot, at 335 meters (!), was perfect—precise and clean. For those unfamiliar with mountain hunting,it’s remarkable to see how the combination of good equipment and experience can make long shots so precise.The ibex fell gracefully, marking a moment of quiet reflection, not just on the hunt but on the significance of this achievement. His magnificent horns, a symbol of strength and years of growth, stood as a testament to this moment.
With great care, we descended the mountain, carrying the ibex with the respect it deserved. Along the way, locals greeted us with the traditional “Waidmannsheil,” to which we responded with “Waidmannsdank.” These moments captured the essence of ethical hunting—respect for nature, for the animals, and for the traditions passed down through generations. It was amazing to see how hunting still holds its place in communities like these, carrying on family traditions and fostering a deep connection to nature.
This alpine ibex, with its wide, magnificent horns, now symbolizes a fulfilled dream, a connection between father and son, and between human and nature. While the gold medal is a remarkable achievement, the real reward lies in the experience itself—the perfect day, the beauty of the mountains, and the enduring bond between a hunter and the wild.
This hunt was a reminder that hunting is not about the pursuit of trophies, but a deeply personal experience—an immersion in nature, a careful selection of the right animal, and a way to carry on the tradition that honors life, landscapes, and the timeless spirit of the wilderness.
