Some outdoor memories take a little extra patience—and a whole lot of heart. For Keilyn, the 2026 Central Wisconsin Fur, Fin & Feather (F3) bear hunt brought challenging days, new friendships, and an unforgettable finish.
On the morning of September 23, 2026, Keilyn harvested a beautiful 175-pound bear with the help of the dogs and his dedicated bear hunting friends. The excitement was shared by everyone who had spent the past two weeks working toward that moment.
Staying Patient Through the Hunt
Keilyn’s time at bear camp began with gusty winds and an unsuccessful first day. By September 10, he was ready to head back to the blind for Day 2, with calmer weather and hope for another opportunity.
As the days passed, Keilyn continued to show patience and determination. By September 20, he had spent nine days sitting over bait and two mornings hunting with the dogs, but still had not had the chance to harvest a bear.
Even during the wait, there was plenty to celebrate. Keilyn made new friends—both two-legged and four-legged—shared laughs, enjoyed great food, and grew his love for the outdoors. Everyone continued hoping that his opportunity would come.
The Morning It All Came Together
On September 23, persistence finally paid off.
The dogs ran the bear more than six miles. Just as the hunters were preparing to pull the dogs, the bear treed, giving Keilyn the opportunity everyone had been working toward.
Keilyn took his time, carefully lined up his shot, and successfully harvested his bear. The excitement among the group was palpable. After so many hours of waiting and working together, they finally got to celebrate with him.
It was a moment made possible by Keilyn’s patience and the commitment of the people beside him.
A Hunt That Truly Took a Village
Experiences like this take many generous people, and F3 is grateful to everyone who helped make Keilyn’s hunt possible.
Nate, Jess, and their family made room for this experience in busy family and work schedules. From hours of driving north to time spent sitting beside Keilyn in the stand, their dedication helped create memories none of us will forget.
Kevin Duvall generously opened his cabin to serve as base camp over the past couple of weeks. Having a place for Keilyn and the F3 crew to gather was an invaluable part of the hunt.
Fred Subke donated the bear tag that made this opportunity possible. His generosity gave Keilyn the chance to experience a hunt he will always remember.
Richard Smazal provided support throughout the past couple of weeks, and we sincerely appreciate his part in helping bring this experience together.
To the bear hunters and their dogs, thank you for your patience, persistence, and countless hours spent helping Keilyn. To the wives and girlfriends who helped feed the crew and clean up, thank you for taking care of everyone along the way.
Smith Bros Meats & Catering kept the crew fed throughout the hunt, accommodated meal requests on short notice, and provided meat processing for Keilyn. We are grateful for that generous support.
The next chapter is in Brenda’s skilled hands at The Safari Room Taxidermy Studio, where she will create a mount for Keilyn’s bedroom wall. We look forward to seeing the finished piece at the 2027 F3 banquet and appreciate her willingness to partner with F3.
Making Memories in the Outdoors
To our sponsors, donors, and banquet attendees: thank you. Your generosity makes experiences like Keilyn’s possible.
This hunt gave Keilyn much more than a successful harvest. It gave him time outdoors with people who encouraged him, new friendships, and memories built through every day of the journey.
That is what Central Wisconsin Fur, Fin & Feather is all about—bringing people together and creating meaningful opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Congratulations, Keilyn, on your 2026 bear harvest! And thank you to everyone who helped turn this hunt into a memory of a lifetime.
