I had the same thing happen two years ago, huge monster 9pt about 22" wide and I shot over his back, we stayed out of the area for about 5 days andhe began using the same trails again. Unfortunately somebody else got him

As long as he's still alive you have that chance to get another shot at him. If he didn't catch your scent or see you then I think there is a chance you'll see him in that area again. But if it were me I'd back out of that spot for now and try a new location and try again in a week or two.

You may have to change locations a little bit, and mix things up some, but you could get a shot at him. Get the heck outta there for a week or so, and don't go near it. Let the location calm down, you may get a shot. Besides that, the rut is just around the corner. Who the heck knows what can happen then.

never count the points...lol...it'll screw ya every time....hopefully next time you'll get him...good luck.

Most ppl I know blew there chance at the big one. I know I did. So did most of my hunting buddies.

I wouldn't sweat it Kevin, as we all know, it won't be long and that big boy will have the attention span of a 3 year old child when he's thinkin with another part of his body. Like everyone else here has already said, if you think he saw you, you'll need to move your stand, but I'd wait a while to do that too, as staying out for a while will help you either way.
As far as what marmax said..."Nothin' worse than the feeling of missing a wall hanger" There IS something worse I'm guessing, and that would be if you were on here to tell us you WOUNDED him. I've never lost a deer, but have been on plenty of blood trails that didn't come to a happy ending with hunting partners, and I would take the CLEAN misses I've had over what they went through ANY day. Good luck to you and I hope you get another chance at him!

I agree with some of the other guys looking at a rack too long can make the most veteran hunter forget themselves and tank an easy shot. Just remember the only easy shot was the last one . I too try to get my heart pumping before I shoot also I only look at a rack long enough to decide to shoot then I pick a spot behind that shoulder and let it fly. If you practice good form and practice it often it will become habbit and when the shot comes you will be ready.