Terry Allen is one of the best elk hunters and wranglers that I know. This true Montanan has traveled the mountains and valleys of Montana for a lifetime. He has ridden many wild mustangs without getting thrown.
My first time meeting Terry was in the Beartooth Mountains. He had invited a new guy to help at elk hunting camp. I did not have an elk tag but I could cook, handle the fires, and help in any way that I could. Breakfast was at 3am and the boys left to chase elk, with Terry in the lead.
I stayed at camp and later hiked for 3 miles to explore the area. The snow-covered mountains were amazing, and I knew why Terry loved this area so much. Back at camp I had made dinner, but no hunters had yet returned.
Later that night the boys returned packing half an elk. The other half would need to be picked up in the morning. A week at elk camp is when you really get to know your friends. Since that camp, Terry and I have been buddies.
The next elk season I drew a bull tag along with 3 other camp buddies. Terry did not draw a tag but still wrangled the horses and led the hunt. After riding in 13 miles, mostly in the dark, we ran into a huge herd of elk. 45 minutes later, we were tagged out. Terry wore out several knives and blades, getting the elk ready to load onto the Decker packs. The horses would carry the meat, and we had to walk out.
There is a lifetime of elk hunting and fishing stories to share. As we age, hunting and fishing gets harder. Our bodies wear out and our outdoor adventures slow down. This Summer, Terry needed to get back surgery. Years of riding and hiking had taken their toll. The surgery was required but Physical Recovery takes more time than anyone wants to admit.
Little steps, lots of physical therapy, and time are the only cure. There are moments when there is hope. Recently Terrys family made him get back on the horse. It took a village, but they rolled over a big water tank, positioned a step ladder, and pushed Terry into position. After a few attempts, Terry could just get his leg over the saddle and sit on the stirrups.
His gentle horse named “Sadie” patiently waited for her riding partner. Terry was finally on board! The grandkids, Rowyn and Cannan, also saddled up and the three went for a ride. Terry was not sure what to expect. He had already figured that he would Never be riding a horse again, but here he was “Tall in the Saddle” once more.
“Not Bad” was Terry’s reply when asked how riding a horse again felt. Hopefully Terry will be able to mount without the overturned water tank soon. Maybe we will again make it back into the mountains for more Montana adventures.
Never say never!
Montana Grant
