The Forest Hunter
Lennart combines his passion for hunting with a deep awareness of nature, wildlife and resources. For him, it is not only the sustainable and ethical sourcing of meat that is important, but also the feeling of intense connection with the landscape: quietly observing wild animals, studying their behaviour and experiencing their habitats. For him, hunting means slowing down, a conscious counterpoint to everyday urban life. It is inextricably linked to fair hunting, a sound knowledge of nature and respect for wildlife.
Hunting in the forest
The forest – a symbol of constancy and change. Spring, summer, autumn and winter shape its rhythm. Each annual ring represents a stage of life. The forest is a habitat, water reservoir, climate regulator and recreational area all at once. For centuries, it has been used sustainably by the forestry industry.
But the signs of the times are visible: climate change, drought and bark beetles have particularly affected the large spruce stands. What remains are vast areas of devastation – some as barren as a lunar landscape. But something new is growing out of this loss: young mixed forests that promise greater stability and resilience for the future.
New times, new hunts
Where once there were monotonous rows of spruce trees, diversity now thrives. Hunting and forestry are taking on a generational task: helping nature to build stable mixed forests.
Hunting in the forest follows its own rules. The cycle of the game determines the strategy and interval. Hunting takes place at key locations such as clearings where young trees are growing, or at their nearby crossing points. Unlike at the classic forest-meadow edge, hunters must react quickly here. The game often only shows itself briefly, hidden behind vegetation and branches.
A particular challenge is shooting through narrow gaps, where often only the chamber is visible. Experience, precision and the right equipment are essential. Even short searches for dead game can be a demanding task in the thicket.
The right ammunition
The choice of ammunition is crucial, especially when hunting in the forest. The lead-free GECO STAR bullet ensures a reliable response thanks to its open hollow point. The bullet's high mass stability guarantees excellent penetration with reliable exit wounds and tracking marks. Thanks to its design, it remains on course even when it comes into contact with twigs, ensuring humane hunting.
A morning in the forest
It is early August. Before sunrise, I take up position in my raised hide in a deciduous forest near an area of forest damage. The forest is asleep, only the soft rustling of the leaves accompanies me on my way. With the first light, life awakens: tentative birdsong rises to a chorus.
Suddenly, there is a rustling sound. Two sows appear with a dozen striped piglets. Playful and curious, but always under the watchful eye of their mother. It is a fascinating spectacle – and it ends as quickly as it began.
Then silence. Just as I am thinking of leaving my hide, I hear heavy game. A herd of deer is approaching. Five animals, including a strong eight-pointer. When it pauses briefly, I seize the opportunity. The shot hits its mark. The stag flees, but tracks at the point of impact confirm my impression. After only 40 metres, I find the dead animal.
A hunter's heart rejoices
A morning full of magic, an experience that makes a hunter's heart beat faster. Good preparation, knowledge of the hunting ground and choosing the right equipment are crucial for a successful hunt. With the lead-free GECO STAR in calibre .308 Win., I am well equipped for hunting hoofed game in the forest – powerful, precise and ethical.
Author: Marlon Santoro
Images: Martina Rohn
