Years of points, family preparation, and one unforgettable evening at camp.
After several years of building points, Cody drew his first Upper Peninsula black bear tag. Research and family experience helped, but success on a first season was never guaranteed.
The bait site went in during early August. Trail cameras quickly showed steady activity, and Cody's dad kept the location active through regular checks and baiting.
On opening day, a mature bear appeared during the afternoon before slipping away. It returned later that evening, recognizable by a small white chest patch, and Cody made a quick, clean harvest.
The work continued after the shot with hauling, skinning, and processing. The hunt ended with meat to share, a hide to preserve, and a first-bear memory made at the family's Leaning Rifle Lodge.