Savage Arms Marketing Director Shimanski has been lucky enough to hunt some wild places all over the globe. For someone who has been hunting for fewer than 10 years, her list of adventures is extensive. While each hunt and journey presents its challenges, Shimanski says she approaches them on an individual basis. Her recent journey to New Zealand was no different. From booking the trip, to boots on the ground in New Zealand, the trip was about as unique and drawn-out process as any hunt can be. When she started the hunt, the winding path in front of her remained full of unknowns, perseverance and, ultimately, success.
Now Savage Arms has documented Shimanski’s arduous hunt in its latest Savage Journeys episode, “Hunting the Rugged Wild.” Season 3, episode 17 features Shimanski’s exceptionally dedicated preparation plan to hunting success as well as her personal growth in New Zealand.
Shimanski, along with friends from the industry, originally planned to hunt the famed New Zealand landscape with the well-known and respected outfitter Glen Dene Hunting in 2020. However, world events meant the once-in-a-lifetime hunt would have to be postponed. Then, New Zealand regulations and other scheduling conflicts pushed the hunt all the way to 2023. The challenge of just getting there was hard enough—but preparing and staying ready meant years of commitment from Shimanski and her hunting companions.
“This hunt was literally years in the making, but I wouldn’t change a thing,” said Shimanski. “My hunting partners, Glen Dene and the true beauty, challenges and mystique of New Zealand made this hunt one to remember forever. I was proud of my ability to stay physically ready and navigate the trip getting pushed back multiple years.”
Shimanski said the hunt itself was every bit as challenging physically, but even more so mentally. “It had a little bit of everything: weather challenges, wary game, close calls and ultimately hard-earned success,” she said. “My stag is a personal trophy and physical reminder of the adventure. However, as all hunters know, it’s also the people you hunt with, the beauty of the terrain and the personal and physical accomplishments that make each hunt memorable and one-of-a-kind.”
Shimanski’s hunt, the preparation, planning and how it all unfolded, can be watched, read and experienced on Carbon TV, Savage YouTube and on the Savage blog.
