Hunters At Heart: Joanna Cieslak

Joanna Cieslak is up next for our Hunters at Heart. Within Outfit International, Joanna is our Area Sales Manager for North Poland. Joanna had no relation to hunting but got drawn to it initially through a hunting-related business position.

"What began as a job had ignited a passion within me. I am the first hunter in my family."

What inspired you to become a hunter? What sparked your interest?

It was an absolute coincidence. I worked briefly for a hunting-related company just before the owner closed her business. Despite knowing nothing about hunting, I took the sales and marketing manager position. Shortly, it all turned out that I found myself drawn to the camaraderie of the hunting community. It all felt both exotic and exciting. What began as a job had ignited a passion within me. I am the first hunter in my family.

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What does hunting mean to you???

?A passion for the thrill of the chase, the beauty of the wilderness, and the bonds forged between hunters.

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What's a hunt that's stuck with you???

?One hunt that has stuck with me was an early morning Chinese water deer hunt in the beautiful area of Bedfordshire, UK. It was a crisp winter day, and I had been eagerly anticipating this hunt for months. We had been stalking for hours in changeable weather conditions, crawling forward on hands and knees. That was my first successful hunt abroad and my first trophy that I brought home. That hunt will always hold a special place in my heart, not just for the thrill of the chase or the satisfaction of a successful harvest but also for the shared experiences and traditions of the hunters that I met.

What's something you would like a non-hunter to understand???

To me one of the most important aspects non-hunters should understand about hunting is the role it plays in wildlife conservation and ecosystem management. While hunting might seem counterintuitive to conservation efforts at first glance, it's a carefully regulated activity that helps maintain balanced populations of various species.

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What's something people would be surprised to know about hunting???

?Hunting has a substantial economic impact beyond just license fees and equipment sales. It supports jobs in various sectors, including outfitters, guides, processors, and retailers. Additionally, the revenue generated from hunting-related activities often supports rural communities and helps fund conservation programs that benefit the broader public.

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What's the best thing about hunting??

In a world full of technologies, innovations, and the fast pace of life, it is often difficult to find the right balance. Hunting gives me a deep connection to the natural world and a sense of fulfilment I have never experienced before.

What's your best advice for fellow hunters???

My best advice for fellow hunters would be to prioritize safety, ethics, and respect for both wildlife and other individuals sharing the outdoors.

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What's the biggest lesson you've learned as a hunter??

?Patience and perseverance. Hunting teaches us to remain resilient in the face of setbacks and to appreciate the process as much as the outcome.