RE: How long did it take?
It took me about 5 years to nail a buck in NJ but that is b/c I missed about 2. With time and practice, I now pass on smaller bucks each season and sometimes never shoot a buck if the opportunity for a decent buck is not there. I think bowhunting makes one a much better hunter and I have seen many more deer and bigger bucks during bow. I have also seen deer mating/making rubs and scrapes and just more natural behavior which makes for a more enjoyable time.'
Good luck!
Bob