The identity I hold with the most pride is being born and raised in TUCSON, ARIZONA. For many of us, that pride never leaves. There is a work ethic and sense of community that comes from this place. Much of that shaped through Coues deer hunting.

There is nowhere else in the world like the Sonoran Desert. The Catalina, Tucson, Rincon, and Santa Rita Mountains that surround Tucson. The tradition passed down from one generation of hunters to the next. The lessons learned through glassing, failing, succeeding, packouts, and earning every opportunity on the mountain have shaped who we are.

Some of the best conversations have started with Coues deer. The stories, and shared pain of understanding of these deer create a sense of belonging that is difficult to explain unless you’ve been a part of it.

Since moving back to Tucson, I’ve noticed people from all over the world discovering Arizona. They come for the saguaros, ARIZONA Basketball, and the monsoons that make this place unlike anywhere else. What many don’t see is the connection we’ve built within those mountains and canyons. They don’t see the generations of hunters, families, and traditions that helped shape this part of the world.

Creating a brand around Coues deer hunting carries a responsibility. I don’t take that lightly. My hope is to help us represent this tradition with the respect it deserves.

This identity wasn’t given to us. It was taught and earned 🌵EARNED ON THE MOUNTAIN. FOR LIFE OFF THE MOUNTAIN.

Augustine Brichta Aguilar

Founder, COUES Research