A MOTHER / DAUGHTER HUNTING DUO
By Judy Jurek
Mothers and daughters create tight bonds. Throughout their years, many activities may keep them enjoying adventures as a pair or family unit. Dena Kana and her daughter, Hunter, not only have family ties but each is the other’s ready-at-the-word-go hunting partner.
Together they form quite the formidable bowhunting team. To back them up if ever necessary is their husband and father, 30-year veteran game warden Bobby Kana.
Dena began hunting with her dad at an early age. At 19, a friend introduced her to bowhunting. She fell in love with the challenge that has never diminished. At 24, she moved to the Texas Coast where she met a future warden on a blind date. Her archery passion truly began as the pair tied the knot of matrimony.
Dena Kana became the first female president of the Lone Star Bowhunters Association (LSBA) after serving on various LSBA committees. Now a LSBA Hall of Famer, Dena’s accolades are numerous, including having served on pro staffs for Bass Pro, StickNLimbs Camo, and Parker Bows. When she’s not hunting, Dena is a senior litigation paralegal for a well-known law firm.
“Hunting, archery, bow fishing, and the outdoors became a lifestyle for our family,” Dean said. “Our son Ty hunted when (he was) young but has since moved to other pursuits. Hunter was a different story. At age 4 she had her first bow with blunt arrows but used a rifle until she was big enough to use a bow with kill power,” she said.
Along the way, the family helps promote hunting and outdoor activities. Thousands of youngsters have used the LSBA’s Youth Archery Range setup at TTHA’s Hunter Extravaganzas and other outdoor venues. The Kanas assist with LSBA and game warden youth hunts. They also promote conservation, often explaining why hunting is an important tool.
“Being raised by a game warden certainly influenced my love for the outdoors,” Hunter said. “I was always around interesting animals. Watching my parents and older brother hunt, I wanted to join in. I obey all laws and regulations and keep an open mind about what hunting opportunities I take.”
Hunter says her mother has played a huge role. Besides being her biggest cheerleader, following Dena’s footsteps has always inspired Hunter.
“I wouldn’t be a bowhunter if it wasn’t for her,” she said. “She has guided me every step yet let me make my own way, too. At age 12, I announced I wanted to hunt Africa. My parents said ‘only with a bow’ so the next day we went shopping. I got my first compound bow. Eleven years later, my Mathews Craze Mission is still my favorite.” Smiling, Hunter said, “It has special meaning behind it, as it’s been to Africa twice.”
Hunter thought her parents were kidding about Africa. It wasn’t until they bought the tickets when it became reality. The first trip was her 18th birthday present.
“I’ve been in love with Africa since I could remember,” Hunter said. “My bedroom is African themed. It’s beautiful country with the most amazing animals and ecosystem. We have another trip planned this summer. I can’t wait!”
On her first trip Hunter took two impalas, a monster warthog, gemsbok, and a bushbuck, being only the second person to take a bushbuck with a bow. She arrowed one impala on her last trip.
“I love hunting unique or hard to get animals,” Hunter said. “I’m definitely the best shot. Mom is the quickest to draw. She’s sometimes trigger happy. Dad is the most composed under pressure. He doesn’t have little freak-out moments like Mom and me. I will cry if I think I made a bad shot.”
In December 2021, Hunter graduated from Texas A&M University with a wildlife and fisheries degree. She currently works three jobs because she hasn’t yet chosen a definite career path. Her ultimate dream is to own a hunting ranch. This mother/daughter duo has placed and won contests with various animals. Dena and Hunter say there’s no more room for mounts in their homes.
Dena’s advice about bowhunting: “You don’t have to let an arrow fly to have a successful hunt. There’s always a hunter glad to help you but learn to do things yourself, or at least know how and don’t expect special treatment.” Dena added TPWD has the Becoming an Outdoor Woman program that’s a great place to begin.
Hunter’s advice: “Don’t hunt in a bad mood; it’s not good for you or the animal. Know you’ll never be able to make everyone happy and it’s not your job to do so. All that really matters is YOU are happy! And bowhunting makes me happy.”
Both ladies agree having a best friend as a hunting partner adds to the experience and memories. Being a mother/daughter team with a game warden behind them just makes life sweeter.
