Redneck...check
Bowhunter...check
Riflehunter...check
I am certified as all three i guess, i believe that you may have had some unfortunate circumstances with the deer you lost, i would put more time in year round, practicing, knowing your equipment through and through is essential to bowhunting success
Also, I began when I was 16 and am now 27, rifle hunter since 12...practice, patience, not rushing shots, and taking clean, ethical ones has lead me to great experiences