Exo Journal — Mindset

Mark Huelsing
Is A Solo Backpack Hunt Right For You?

Is A Solo Backpack Hunt Right For You?

There are a lot of variables and added layers of difficulty that come with solo hunting in the backcountry. The questions you may consider include — Is solo hunting actually a good idea? Is it worth it? And is it right for you? I believe a strong case can be made that solo hunting is, in fact, a good idea IF you...

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Mark Huelsing
2021 Death Hike Recap: Fly-In, Hike-Out Adventure in the Frank Church Wilderness

2021 Death Hike Recap: Fly-In, Hike-Out Adventure in the Frank Church Wilderness

The 2021 Death Hike began with a flight into a remote airstrip, deep in Idaho's Frank Church "River of No Return" Wilderness. Two groups landed at two different airstrips, and upon waving goodbye to the Cessna planes, each group had the goal of hiking out of the wilderness over the next 48 hours.

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Mark Huelsing
5 Sayings That Will Change How You Hunt

5 Sayings That Will Change How You Hunt

The most important thing I learned when speaking with Dave is that you should always have a pen and paper available when Dave is speaking. Even in a short, casual conversation, Dave is going to drop some wisdom that you’ll want to write down. These notes will be things you want to remember and reflect on in the future. Dave’s perspective is a result of decades spent as a Marine fighter pilot, mountaineer, and backcountry hunter. Dave’s experience is as deep as his curiosity — a combination that has created an intriguing depth of wisdom.

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Mark Huelsing
Why I'm Not A Trophy Hunter. Or A Meat Hunter...

Why I'm Not A Trophy Hunter. Or A Meat Hunter...

Two widespread categorizations of hunters are that of the "trophy hunter" and the "meat hunter". Some hunters gladly self-identify as one or the other. Many hunters would say that they are both. Some would say they are neither. The idea that you have to be a meat hunter or a trophy hunter is a false dichotomy. Like nearly all this-or-that categorizations, there is little room left for nuance, complexity, and mystery. You don't have to ascribe to any label or be a certain type of hunter. That said, if I were to choose a label for myself, I would ascribe...

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