Long before Target started carrying camouflage cargo shorts, or some German fashion designer threw blue and pink camo prints out on the catwalk, camo was cool. It is as cool now as it was back in 3rd grade playing GI Joe out in the tall clover field...
Camouflage is more than just a strange fashion statement for me. It's about being one with nature. It's about wanting to enter the harsh wilderness and get a glimpse of it's wonder, and then gracefully exit, leaving no trace behind. The thrill of the hunt isn't a thirst for blood, it's the desire to witness and participate in the amazing element of survival. In reality for deer season camouflage plays an interesting role. The fact is, deer are dichromatic, (they can't see a full range of colors) and that's why wearing the required blaze orange hat and vest in Missouri isn't that big of a deal. So why wear camouflage at all if the deer can't see colors? Well many a hunter would agree it's unnecessary, but for me it's like going to the football game without wearing your game face. Who want's to be the Chiefs fan wearing his blue ski jacket and matching stocking cap, just because they are warm? That screams foul!!!
Camouflage is an integral part of this hunters ego, as he steps into the fringe of trees and tries to silently make his way to his stand in the inky darkness that precludes the dawn. As the frosty mist begins to fade and the shadows reveal themselves, he slowly scans the tree line for movement. He knows full well he cannot be seen. He is invisible (at the very least in his mind) and the joy that brings can only be understood by fellow hunters who will forever be boys at heart. The joy of the hunt would just not be the same without camouflage. So the next time you see some traditional GI Issue Woodland Camo, or maybe a flash of Mossy Oak Realtree, or even some of that uber cool new digital camo, remember what camo is really about good people. It's a state of mind...
Until Next Time...
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