ORIGINAL: HNIJustin
ORIGINAL: mnhotbabe
I want a nice mature buck that I can be proud of.
First of all, you can be proud of ANY animal you take, regardless of what sex or how big it is.
Also, when you're just starting off hunting there is no need to go for mature bucks only. You need to start small with does and little bucks and slowly work your way up from there. I can guarantee you that there is no trophy hunter out there who started shooting monster deer right out of the gate. Everyone has to start small and build themselves up over time.
Keep in mind that a successful hunt isn't about having bragging rights to a monster buck. Its' about the experience in the field, the meat on the table, and the memories that will last a lifetime.
So the next time that spike walks by your tree, send an arrow his way and go home a happy hunter!
I COMPLETELY disagree...no spike deserves to be killed just because you are a little inexperienced. IMO you are doing the right thing. Don' sell out to becoming a "happy hunter" because you won't be if you plug a little spike. Harvest a doe and get one under your belt and some meat in the frig, and then hold out for daddy rabbit...no arguable reason not to. I harvested does for 4 years before I finally connected with a PY buck and have maintained that standard for 15 years...some years I eat my buck tag but almost all years I get a doe for the freezer. You will gain much more experience hunting mature deer period...does or bucks...let the little ones go so they can grow. No arguable reason not to.
And FYI...anyone who has a username with "hotbabe" in it, is required to post a pic of themselves.