Even with ideal stand placement getting an old buck within 20 yards of your stand is tough. They don't follow the same trails every time. They can decide to trot through your shooting lane. They can turn towards or away from you as you draw back and not give you a shot. I truly believe that once you get to a certain level of knowledge and skill it comes down to 2 things: time in the stand and luck. From what I have read from you, it seems like you are only a lucky break away from a real monster.
I agree with all of this.
Not sure about your deer population or the amount of people in your area hunting (mine is high and heavy) but I have found if you hunt the does, the bucks will follow.
This, too. I've said it before....I don't target mature bucks. I hunt does. Sooner or later (evidently) one comes looking for the other.....and you get your chance.
I could be all wrong and run through several years of no luck with one of these guys. If so...I'll change my approach. As long as it's working, though,........I'll continue to hunt the does.