I almost exclusively bowhunt, almost exclusively on public land - the Big Cypress swamp in south Florida. It is hard terrain, hot wet and buggy. We have a small deer heard and we are only allowed to take 2 bucks a year with at least 5 inch antlers. I have to work for every single opportunity see a shooter, much less to take a shot at one. In a perverse way, it gives me a great sense of accomplishment. Some of my friends think I am insane, and maybe I am a little, but to paraphrase someone: that which we obtain too easily we cherish too lightly.

It is not commonplace for me to see deer in the woods. Last year I spent about 25 days hunting and came to full draw 3 times. Of those I only shot once. But every time I see a deer in the woods it makes my heart pump like nothing else does. I think if I saw 50 deer a day I would lose that. I do not denigrate other hunters who have an easier time of it. I do not think less of their hunting accomplishments. But I do cherish my own because it is hard.