Originally Posted by
7.62NATO
Yeah, I dunno. I also really like the knockdown power of a muzzleloader or HPR. With the exception of my first year hunting where I stupidly used buckshot during a hunt, I have never lost a deer. I read too many stories of deer being lost by arrow shots that were not completely perfect.
And the warm weather...yuck. That's why we have fishing.
I just can't associate deer hunting with high 70's temps. And I bet the deer have a ton of ticks that time of year!
As far as hunting counties west of the dog running line, that is a good idea. At least for a couple hunts a year. If I don't get a deer at last light, I like being able to get home to my family before the kids go to bed. If I hunt too far away, I'll miss that. So I might start looking for public land to hunt in those areas.
You would be surprised at how lethal an arrow is. All it takes is some practice and knowing your limits. A few years back I introduced a friend into bowhunting. I took him to a trusted pro shop and the owner set him up with a bow that fit him(correct draw weight and draw length). He practiced from May until hunting season started in September. He made a self imposed limit of no shots beyond 25 yards and he killed 2 doe in his first season and clean missed a decent buck. Now with crossbows being legal in VA, the learning curve is even quicker.
FWIW, I have found ticks on deer the first week of Jan before. I'm not sure you could find a deer that does not have some ticks.
I understand about being home with your family as that is what's important in life.