I've been hunting since 1998, but I've only shot 3 deer. One year and a half old buck and two does. Not very impressive compared to others, but I am satisfied to no end. I only gun hunt so with working and with a nine day deer gunseason, I can usually get out 3-4 days. Two years ago I got a muzzleloader so that adds 1-3 days. I never even shot a gun until I was in my mid thirties so all of this is new to me. I'm self taught in many ways. Some years I never even see a deer in range. I've let a lot of little bucks walk (except for one because that was my first deer ever, LOL!). Last year, I finally had a HUGE 10 point standing in front of me broadside at 30 yards. Biggest live deer I have ever seen up close. My heart was racing because it was so exciting!!!!!! Well, I didn't shoot because I was on a special area hunt and I had drawn an anterless deer only tag. DOH! Very exciting though as he browsed and mingled in front of me for 5 maybe 10 minutes. Pretty cool having them never even know you are there.

Sometimes I wish I hunted where it is common to see a lot of deer when you go out and hunt. But when it comes down to it, there is always something to watch. I just love being out in the woods!