100-year-old hunter harvests elk in Washington State

Gordon Blossom is proof that you’re only as old as you feel. The 100-year-old Washington State hunter harvested an elk on Dec. 27, 2016 after it jumped the boundary fence of the Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park, landing in hunting territory.

What makes this harvest extra special is the fact that Blossom, who has been hunting since he was 10 years old, mentioned his desire to harvest an elk when he was 100 several years before. Being able to make that desire a reality with the help of his 62-year-old son, Rod Blossom, is priceless.

“I’m the luckiest man in the world,” Blossom told The Daily Record. “I just love to be out there.”

Yet, the harvest took some time. Because Blossom is a master hunter, he was out hunting in August, but wasn’t able to take his elk before late December. Finally, after spending nearly five days a week for several months looking for elk, Blossom got his chance.

“They were moving and I mean, moving,” says Blossom. “Probably going 30 miles per hour and I just don’t feel like I should shoot unless I’m pretty sure I can get it. I don’t want a wounded animal.”

Blossom always hunts with his son because he has a disabled hunting permit, which meant his son was behind the wheel as the duo tracked the elk across the terrain. Fortunately, they were able to get in range and Blossom took the shot with a Winchester .300 H&H magnum rifle that he’s had since 1953.

Congratulations, Gordon Blossom, on an amazing and memorable harvest!