We routinely learn from shotgun instructor and Syren pro-staffer Kate Ahnstrom. Kate pens several of the columns for “Syren Savvy” here at The WON. When she’s not instructing on the range or in the field on a hunt, she might be found at dog trials with her husband and beloved German shorthairs. Or, Kate might be found these days training a red-shoulder hawk in falconry skills (along with two of her shorthairs to be falconry dogs).
Kate says she’s been called a “Renaissance woman,” and we believe it. She is well schooled in animal husbandry, upland bird hunting and keeping livestock, including goats and horses. She tempers the rural with the world of travel since, as a former airline flight attendant, Kate has traveled the world and still enjoys putting miles between her and her home in Virginia.
Kate also can be found on the range at Old Forge Sporting Clays and Minnesota Horse & Hunt Club (her “away” range).
We know that you’ll enjoy reading what Kate Ahnstrom has to say about being in the outdoor industry, and don’t forget to check out #6.
Describe a typical day in your work life.
With a small farm full of animals, it starts early feeding horses, dairy goats, chickens, upland birds and of course, 7 shorthairs! Currently also flying a red-shouldered hawk, which takes time to work. Then an hour drive to the course (actually the distance is great so I can catch up on calls and just plan the day). Usually 3-to-4 student lessons, with hopefully a little time for my own shooting practice somewhere. Back home to work dogs before sundown, prepare dinner and crack open laptop to answer emails, schedule students and work on website and upcoming events.
#1 piece of advice you would give other females who want to break into the industry?
You CAN do this but you have to stand out, and not for the wrong reasons. We are under a microscope and scrutinized more than men in the same position. You’ll get discouraged and discounted and only you know your worth and abilities. BELIEVE in that and if this is your passion, let it shine and shine bright! Always be willing to work with others in the same profession. There are more than enough students and clients to go around and connecting and sharing with other professionals is paramount to healthy working relationships.
What motivates you?
My passion for the outdoors and the sport. I love to teach and I love to be in the hunt field and on the clays course. The more men, women and youth that I can get excited about shooting, the more advocates we will have to keep this phenomenal sport alive and well for generations to come.
Most unexpected thing you’ve learned, while working in this industry?
That regardless of political affiliation, EVERYONE loves to shoot. I have had the opportunity to work with some people that have actually voted for greater gun control. Through some bizarre manner, they ended up coming to me for a lesson, usually so they would be able to get ready for a fundraiser or event. I would love to believe that I was able to help open their eyes to the greater good of shooting sports and helped to sway their votes to defending our 2A rights. Everyone has always walked away with ear-to-ear smiles and wanting to come back, so hopefully it lasted!
Favorite product in the outdoor or shooting market right now?
My brand new Prois Dionla rain gear! I have never found rain gear that I could bird hunt or field trial in until this incredible line. It’s very comfortable, attractively fitting and absolutely waterproof. I put it to the test at a field trial in December when we got almost two inches of rain that weekend and it was fantastic. Now to find thin waterproof gloves that can match that same outstanding quality in my Prois gear.
Let’s have some fun … what weapon would you use to battle a giant?
Vivian! My 10-year-old Alpine dairy goat. She battles the giant Percheron horses in the paddock every day for the best spot at the round bale of hay and hasn’t lost yet. I figure she could probably take down a giant with the same ease.
Want to meet Kate? Find out more about how to schedule lessons with her at Virginia Shooting Sports.
Publisher/Editor Barbara Baird is a freelance writer in hunting, shooting and outdoor markets. Her bylines are found at several top hunting and shooting publications. She also is a travel writer, and you can follow her at https://www.ozarkian.com. View all posts by Barbara Baird
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