Thanks Ric. I didn't tape him. I guess it has been in the back of my mind, but in the end it doesn't matter. I was honestly going to pass on him. I have seen several similar with more mass and 2 that were just plain bigger this season on the hoof either scouting with binoculars or while on stand. The determining factor that made up my mind to draw on this guy was the fact he came from the property I hunted hard last year and had so many issues with trespassers and such!
Here were my thoughts to self as I watched him come out of his bedding area. "I don't know. He doesn't have a ton of mass. Man, the body on this deer does not scream 'mature' to me. This guy has serious potential. Geez o Pete, Phil. You have never killed more than a button buck with your bow! Shoot this deer you freakin' idiot. He is a nice deer!" Next thing I remember is clicking record on the riser cam and loosing an arrow while he was rubbing the tree!
lol As I stated, this year has been 180 degree difference from last year. Biggest deer I saw last year was a small basket 6pt that the outside of his rack was at MOST about the size of a volleyball. Seeing nice deer, and having one within shooting range AND presenting a shot are two different things. This is where the "luck" part of hunting comes into play. I felt if I didn't take this shot, I may not get another shot opportunity on a nice one this year. Don't doubt I would "see" some more nice deer, but to be presented with a bow shot is by no means a given. Hell, last night I glassed one that made my buck look like a baby from across the field. I was in stand looking for a deer that was illegally taken from my friend's farm Sunday but not recovered. I thought an elevated platform to look down on the fields would be the best view to look for him. Well, what do you know, there walks out a friggin' monster in muzzle loader range. Dang. lol
