I like the statement, "shoot what you are proud of". For some its a forkhorn, others its a 130 class 8 point, for others the "hunt" might dictate the "trophy".

I pass up alot of bucks every year, but have taken a couple that may not be "trophy standards", even to myself, during that time. Generally my goal is a 2-1/2 yr old buck or better.

I had an excellent bowhunt this fall where I had 4 bucks in a batchelor group, none very large around me at the same time. After 2 hours of watching, and passing a couple obviously yearling bucks, I was able to call the largest of the 4 to the stand with a grunt. Its rack was heavier, and was the "dominant" deer in the bunch - though definitely not the whole area. I made a clean 8 yd shot, and even though it was only a 5 point, I was very proud to take that deer. It turned out it was 2-1/2,just small, but I would have taken it if it was only 1-1/2, due to the circumstances of that hunt.

Had the same deer passed by alone, I probably would have passed it.

I think its important that we set goals, but I also think its important to realize that hunting should be fun. We should not be blinded by our goals, and should be able recognize what makes a hunt truly enjoyable, and hunt accordingly.

I had more "fun" taking that smallish 5 point, than the 160 lb 9 pointer I took a couple years before when a quick shot was offered. and I was successful.