Walt Gentis and the 6x7 elk he tracked through the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. — CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Walt Gentis, right, with his friend Mike Moore's son, Lucas, have a successful antelope hunt
in the Juniper Unit of Harney County. — CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Walt Gentis uses elk teeth to make necklaces.
“If you’re sitting still and the animal is moving, you’re at a better advantage because they’re not
aware you’re there – once I learned to do this I became more successful,” he said.
He uses various weapons for hunting, including archery, muzzleloader and black powder car-
tridge rifles – his favorite is the Sharps Model 1874 black powder rifle which his friends gave him
as a retirement gift about 10 years ago.
But the thrill of the hunt isn’t the only thing for Gentis – sometimes he simply likes watching
wildlife.
He’s developed other hobbies over the years, including flintknapping, which he began at age 15.
Using antlers, he’s made handles for steel and arrowhead knives, fashioning leather scabbards with
his own beadwork. Even elk teeth are saved, using some to make necklaces.
The biggest reward, he said, is sharing his knowledge of hunting with others.
“It’s about my grandkids and my family, helping them and seeing the look on their face and their
reaction when they’re successful,” he said.
MyEagleNews.com
Grant County Hunting Journal 2015 • 17