Meet Sam Cox
Where are you based?
Brisbane, QLD
What type of hunting do you do?
I do various types of hunting, rifle hunting, bow hunting and spearfishing.
How did you get into hunting?
My father introduced me to hunting, fishing, and eventually spearfishing from a young age, instilling a passion for the outdoors and self-sufficiency.
Where is your favourite location to hunt?
New England Region NSW
Tell us about your most memorable hunt
Some of my most memorable hunting experiences take place in the granite country west of the Great Dividing Range. Not a single hunt, but a combination of many outings that blend together. On frosty mornings, I would often encounter a scene that never fails to excite me: steam rising from freshly turned earth where wild pigs have been foraging through the night and fresh game trails visible in the frost. The landscape of massive granite boulders, rocky outcrops and tea tree and fern filled gullies provides a rugged backdrop to these hunts. The early morning silence broken by the sounds of boars fighting and sows squealing in the distance, signalling the start of the hunt. These moments, combining the beauty of nature with the thrill of the chase, are what make hunting in this area so unforgettable for me.
What are your top three "holy grail" items?
I like to keep my gear simple - even hunting barefoot at times - Outside of my rifle, bow or speargun a sharp knife is the one item I consider indispensable for any hunting or spearfishing trip. In addition to a good knife having the appropriate clothing or wetsuit is essential, theres nothing worse than being too cold to focus on or enjoy the hunt.
Why do you hunt?
I hunt for the meat, the trophy, and the challenge, but also for something more intangible. It's about the experience of being out in the bush or on the water and finding my place within it. The thought of being outdoors is constantly on my mind. Hunting allows me to provide for my family in the most primal and direct way possible. There's something deeply fulfilling about bringing home meat that I've harvested myself. It's not just about the food on the table, but about the entire process - from tracking the animal to preparing the meat. Hunting, for me, is a way to participate in the natural cycle of life and death. It fosters a deep respect for the animals I pursue and the environments they inhabit. It's not about proving anything, but about understanding and appreciating the delicate balance of nature. Ultimately, hunting connects me to something larger than myself. It's a way to fulfil my primal urges, to challenge myself, to provide for my loved ones, and to be an active participant in the natural world rather than just an observer.