Backcountry 7X7
The hunt begins riding into the backcountry with everything needed for an 8 day hunt. It didn’t take long to start hearing bulls bugling in the distance, which set the tone right away. We covered a lot of ground—hiking ridges, working through timber, and dropping into basins where the elk were.
Nothing was going our way. Some bulls answered and came partway in but wouldn’t fully commit. They would hang up out of range just long enough for the wind to swirl. In the areas the elk lived the wind was constantly swirling and made it feel impossible. It took staying patient, playing the wind right, and just sticking with it through long hikes and tired legs.
Hunting with two close friends made the whole experience even better. Everyone stayed locked in, helping call, set up, and keep each other going. Between hunts, time back at camp was a great time talking about the memories we had just had.
Eventually, everything came together. A big 7x7 bull responded. We knew we would have to close the distance fast because of the wind. The setup was textbook, the wind held, my friend was scraping a tree 60 yards behind me which brought the bull into 20 yards. There was a clean shot opportunity. The shot broke and the arrow found its mark. The bull was down within seconds. It was a moment I will never forget… hugging my friends and thanking the Lord for an experience that was so gracious.
FILMMAKER BIO
My name is Cal Muxlow and I strive to stay zealous for that which draws me closer to the Lord. A relationship with the Lord defines who I am and that is my guide in this short life. My relationship with Him is the foundation I build on daily, shaping my decisions, my values, and the way I strive to live with integrity and gratitude. I aim to honor Him in both the big moments and the quiet, everyday ones.
Family is my greatest earthly blessing. I love spending time with my wife, Khloe, and our son, Hux. They are truly the greatest gifts I could’ve ever asked for. Being a husband and father is something I take seriously and cherish deeply, and I’m committed to leading them towards Christ, loving, and providing for them in every way I can.
Finally, I have a strong passion for hunting. It’s more than just a hobby to me—it’s a way to reflect what the Lord has done for me and to see God’s goodness and glory through his creation. Hunting has taught me many traits, such as patience and discipline, and thankfulness even when I am unsuccessful.
At my core, I strive to live a life of faith, devotion to my family, and while doing that… hunt as much as I can.
