DowningAir

Well, success finally struck on November 14th. I had been planning this all-day hunt, on the eve of the firearms deer season opener here in Michigan, for a couple weeks. Anticipation for this hunt was quite high. Though I haven't seen much action this season, I was excited to give it one more shot before the guns started blazing. All thesigns seemed to be in my favor;the weather, the moonphase, the rut. This seemed like the best day to be out.

I woke up early, excited to get out to the stand. After my 20 minute drive to the property, I threw on my gear and hit the trail. I got into my stand an hour before sunlight, and settled in for what I had assumed would be an all day affair. Fortunately it ended sooner then that. At about 7:30, I saw this buck parallel to me,exiting a bedding area headed south west. He had his nose to the ground andwas on a mission.I had none of my calls out as I was unprepared for a sightinglike this so early in my sit. As he approached due south of me, I let out a grunt in hopes of getting his attention. He never looked up. I reached around, grabbed my bow, and let out another. This one got his attention. He headed straight north on a line that would put him right at me. At about 30 yards away he stopped behind a tree and I drew back. He continued down in front of me til about 8 yards, turned broadside, and I let it go. I'll tell you what, my bow has never shot smoother! I wached the arrow hit, watched him run, and lost sight of him about 100 yards out. I was pumped!

I called my brother and told him I hit one. He always complains to me cause I never shoot and he likes totrack. After about an hour, I got down and walked to the truck to meet him. We drove around and gave him another hour just tobe sure. We weren't on the trail for more then 40 yards when I looked up and saw a big white belly. Awesome! Here he is...

8 point witha 16 inch spread. Not very wide but he's tall! He dressed out at 180. Here's another view...