RE: How long did it take?
First three years of bowhunting I was holding out for a nice, mature buck. Saw a few but never took any. A buddy mine told me to shoot what I want at first, sort of like "building up" to that mature status. So, that's the route I took. After 4 years of bowhunting, I shot a 4 ptr. After that, I felt like I had completed my freshman year, if you know what I mean.
In the last two years I have taken a nice 8 ptr and 10 ptr w/ my bow.
It may sound stupid to build up to it, but like others said...get a few deer under your belt, then you'll be that much more prepared when that big boy steps out in front of you.
Best of luck to ya!