RDHunter - I hunt a small tract of private land close to my house (Howell area), that seems to produce decently. I've seen some monster bucks near this area, so I know the gene pool is well stocked. Last year in late August I saw a buck in velvet walking down a trail that had 12"+ tines and at least a 24" spread. He was a big boy. Hope to see him around if he's still around.

I also have 40 acres up in Harrison (not Harrison Twnshp, but the mid-MI Harrison north of Clare). The property is about 10 minutes from Jays.

You sound like you have a great areat to hunt down where you are. I may have a chance to hunt private land in Jackson County this year - the famed premier "big buck" county of MI. That would be sweet.