A Lesson in Preparation and Optimism

On Nov 7, 2024 Joe Imler-Knisely, of Frosty Hollow, harvested this 750 lb, 5x6, bull elk in Elk County, accompanied by his 19 year old son, Payden.

This was a hunt that seemed too good to be true and almost didn't happen. This was the first time Joe applied for an elk tag. He spent many hours with his cousin, Steve King, preparing for this hunt.

Joe was anxious, optimistic and ready to go. But 11 days prior to the planned trip, Payden ended up in the hospital with a collapsed lung.

After a week in the local hospital, a Life Flight to Pittsburgh, surgery to repair the hole, and a few more days...