Payson Roundup

After the completion of each year of big-game hunting in the state of Arizona, the Trophy Book Awards are presented by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. 

Hunters who are successful at taking record-book animals can qualify for this prestigious award.   Gage Conway, an 18-year-old senior at Payson High School, was one of the recipients of the Trophy Book Award for his record 120-inch Coues Whitetail Deer.

His successful hunt was in unit 23 which has a vast area of  remote terrain that can produce trophy class whitetails for those hunters willing to hike that extra mile.  While glassing the rugged canyons near Young with his father Chris and his uncle Mike, the trophy buck was spotted on a distant ridge. 

 After a lengthy hike, Gage was able to get into position to make a clean shot at 375 yards with his .243 caliber rifle that gave him a buck that most people only dream about. This was his second successful deer hunt, and no doubt this story will be retold many times around the campfire when the Conways  get together for their family deer hunts.

 Not only does he enjoy hunting and fishing, but Gage is also on the varsity Longhorn wrestling team where he is a stalwart grappler preparing for a successful senior year. The outdoor experiences in Arizona can have a positive effect on our youth. 

This weekend, good luck hunting, and enjoy God’s creation.