How I Euro Mounted My Deer Head the Old-Fashioned Way

By: Ashley Holm 

Conservation and hunting have always been intertwined. At their core, both are rooted in respect: respect for the land, the wildlife, and the responsibility we carry as stewards of the natural world. Ethical hunting supports conservation efforts, protects habitat, and ensures that future generations can experience the same wild places and connections we value today. It’s not just about the hunt; it’s about living with intention, understanding our role in the ecosystem, and giving back more than we take.

This week on the Conservation Chronicles, we’re talking to Felicia Marie, a guide, founder of Women of the Wild, and a passionate advocate for helping women find belonging and confidence in the outdoors. Felicia’s journey didn’t begin in a traditional hunting household, but she forged her own path into the lifestyle and has since helped countless others do the same.

Tell us a bit about who you are. How did you get into this lifestyle?

My name is Felicia Marie. I grew up with a strong respect for nature, but I didn’t begin hunting until my late teens. It started with curiosity, specifically with archery, and quickly became a calling. Since I wasn’t raised in a hunting family, I learned through trial and error, asking questions, and relying on generous mentors. Over time, I realized that hunting isn’t just about the harvest. It’s about connection. Connection to the land, to the animals, and to the people beside you. It’s where I found peace, purpose, and a passion for helping others find that same sense of belonging in the wild. That passion eventually led me to create Women of the Wild, a company focused on making opportunities and education accessible to women. Through years of dedication, I also became a licensed guide for waterfowl, upland, and big game across several states.

What does hunting mean to you personally?

To me, hunting is a balance of humility and gratitude woven into a single experience. Each hunt is a reminder that I’m part of something bigger than myself. It’s not about trophies; it’s about respect, responsibility, and honesty with the natural world. Hunting teaches patience and acceptance. Sometimes the lesson is found in stillness, sometimes in a missed opportunity, and sometimes in success. Every hunt is sacred, and every animal taken is honored through full utilization, storytelling, and stewardship. Hunting grounds me and reminds me to live with intention.

Do you have a most memorable hunt?

One of my most meaningful hunts was with my dad. He hunted before having kids, but set it aside to raise three girls. I had the opportunity to hunt in Limpopo, South Africa, and needed to bring someone with me. After scrambling through options, I realized I wanted him there. Africa had always been his dream. While I was pursuing my dream animal, the kudu, I asked our PH (Personal Hunter) if we could try to find a sable for him, his favorite. We ended up tracking and hunting a beautiful old sable bull for hours. The joy and pride on his face in that moment is something I’ll never forget. It was a memory we shared just the two of us, and it was truly special.

What role does conservation play in your hunting journey?

Conservation is the foundation of everything I do. Hunting is a privilege, and with that comes the responsibility to protect the habitats and species we rely on. I support local conservation efforts, take part in habitat restoration, and focus on educating new hunters about ethical practices. Hunters are the original conservationists, and our involvement funds and sustains wildlife and wild places. To me, conservation isn’t an obligation. It’s gratitude for the land, for the animals, and for the future.

What would you say to women who are curious about hunting or conservation but don’t know where to start?

Start with curiosity. No one begins with all the answers. Find someone willing to teach you, ask questions, and take the first small step. The outdoors doesn’t care about your background, your gear, or your experience. It only asks that you show up with respect and a willingness to learn. Surround yourself with people who encourage growth. Confidence comes with time, and every step counts. You belong here.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

Many people are surprised to learn that I’ve worked full-time in healthcare for over a decade, and before that, I worked in the automotive industry. I’m also a mom to two wild, wonderful boys. Introducing them to the outdoors has been incredibly meaningful. My oldest, now 16, wants to become a DNR officer and already enjoys mentoring others. Seeing that spark grow from learning to leading has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. My youngest is still learning and soaking everything in, always by my side on early mornings and late evenings. For him, it’s never just about the hunt, and I admire that deeply.

What do you wish you knew when you first started?

I wish I knew that mistakes are part of the process. Missing shots, getting turned around, feeling intimidated- those moments build resilience. The learning never ends, and that’s the beauty of it. Every season offers new lessons if you’re willing to listen.

Any final thoughts?

Hunting is more than a pastime; it’s a lifestyle rooted in respect, tradition, and gratitude. I hope to continue bridging the gap for others and showing that there is space here for anyone willing to learn and care for the land. Whether in a blind, in the bush, or on the back forty, the outdoors has a way of reminding us of who we are and what truly matters. My journey isn’t perfect, but it’s honest, and that’s the story I’ll always share.

Instagram: @felicia_marie_wild_endeavors

Website: www.womenofthewild.net