The Huntress

PHOTO COURTESY OF DEBBIE BOYD

Debby Dunn

BY MIKE MCKENNA

When you sit down to share a cup of coffee with Debby Dunn, the conversation circles around the stuff moms with young sons usually talk about: school, youth sports, the curse of modern electronics, trying to keep your kids in clean clothes that actually fit, etc. But when the subject turns to hunting, Debby’s piercing, dark eyes really start to sparkle.

Debby first fell in love with hunting over a decade ago and now enjoys sharing her passion with her sons, Hunter and Dakar. Originally from Twin Falls, Debby is a well-known fishing guide who calls the Wood River Valley home.

Over a cup of coffee recently, I asked Debby about her passion for hunting big game and why she thinks more women should get into the sport.

What was your first hunt?

DD: ”My first hunt was for antelope. I was lucky enough to harvest a trophy buck and I have been hooked on hunting ever since. I learned that it’s a big deal to take a life; you definitely want to do it right. I am very grateful whenever I am lucky enough to harvest an animal.”

What has been your favorite hunt?

DD: “It was really fun—scary, but fun— to hunt on my own for many years, but now my sons are old enough to join me on scouting missions and hunts. It has made hunting so much more fun. Last October, the boys and I went out on a mule deer hunt and it was an incredible day. It was put together by a higher power. Hunter helped us navigate and Dakar spotted a big buck and we wound up getting it. It’s now mounted and hangs in our home as a reminder of that unforgettable day. To share that experience with my little adventure buddies was really special.”

Why should more women get into hunting?

DD: “Being self-sufficient is very important to me. It’s important in this day and age to know how to take care of yourself and know how to live off the land. I love to encourage women to get out there and get out of your comfort zone. Have the courage as a woman and for yourself to go do it. You’ll become a stronger person.”

Any tips for people interested in hunting?

DD: “Idaho’s Department of Fish and Game is a wonderful resource. Their YouTube page has lots of how-to videos. But if you’re going to get into hunting, you need to become comfortable with firearms, find a gun club or a good mentor. I’ve never met a hunter who wasn’t excited to talk about hunting and share what they’ve learned. You need to enjoy long walks through the wilderness, including through the dark.”

Beyond the thrill and practicality of bringing home dinner, what are the intrinsic benefits of hunting?

DD. “I love to be out in nature. If I harvest or not, hunting is amazing because you’re out there connecting with nature. If nothing else, hunting always leads you into Idaho’s most beautiful places.”