Meet David Healan, our Lodge Manager at The Dead Rabbit.
David brings over 20 years of experience to the team. Those who have visited us in previous seasons will know him well for his passion for pheasant hunting and everything that comes with it. We sat down with him for a deeper dive…
1. What are your main duties at the lodge?
I am responsible for overseeing the entire operation, blending high-end hospitality management with complex outdoor wildlife and hunting logistics. I assist the TDR team in creating a very welcoming and comfortable hunting experience for our guests.
2. When the season is open, what is your number one goal while hunters are here, and how do you achieve it?
Being prepared and ready to give our guests a great hunting experience. The team achieves this by putting in the work long before the season opens and guests arrive.
3. If you could use three words to describe yourself, what would they be and why?
Focused, vigilant, and methodical. The team and I are always working to ensure our guests have an enjoyable stay and an outstanding hunting experience. Because we host only one group at a time at our exclusive lodge, we stay focused on giving that group our full attention. When hunting upland birds, we must be methodical and ready to adjust to whatever may arise during a hunt. That’s why they call it hunting and fishing—not killing and catching.
4. You spend most of your time at the lodge throughout the year—does the environment inspire you more than working in an office?
Working outdoors in the hunting and upland bird wildlife industry beats an office job 100% of the time. Dealing with the elements—including weather, wildlife, and crops—is just part of what makes my job challenging and inspiring. It pushes me to do everything I can to create great habitat for wildlife. Having quality habitat is essential to attracting and sustaining wildlife.
5. The Dead Rabbit is a special place, and for some it might be their first time hunting. What impression do you want them to leave with?
I think it’s important for guests to leave feeling welcomed and comfortable. I want them to have enjoyed great hunting, great food, and a memorable time with friends.
6. If you could give advice to your guests before they arrive, what would you tell them?
The TDR team looks forward to their visit, and we encourage them to let us know what we can do to make their stay enjoyable. We can tailor the experience to their preferences.
7. Do you have a favorite memory while out in the field?
As a lifelong bird dog enthusiast, chasing quail and pheasant since I was eight years old, I have many great memories in the field. Most involve the incredible dogs I’ve hunted behind over the years. I especially enjoy going out with guests and watching the dogs work. Seeing the dogs perform and impress guests has been very memorable for me over the past six years.
8. What is your favorite way to end a hunting day?
I like to end the day with happy hunters. As we all know, that doesn’t always happen—but when it does, it’s fantastic. I enjoy visiting with guests during dinner. When you walk up and hear them talking about the great time they had, you know it was a successful day.