Personally, I would have slowly let down and waited for a more appropriate shot. I understand with night approaching quickly, you wanting a buck, and the eagerness of the hunt that you chose the shot. I just wouldn't, like you've already stated, make it a habit.

But now, we're all waiting...did you find him?!?!

I for one appreciate your honesty knowing this place can be critical at times. Now that I've read all the replies I plan to over look the shot as well. ..before the replies I may have taken that shot. This site has been the most educational site for me of all the sites on here. It's like I'm getting the cream of the crop of every good bow hunting book into one place. I bought my baking soda today too.Planto do some wash.

I hope ya find your deer sir...and in one piece.

I edited my original post and it did not bump it to the front page so this post will bump it.....CHECK OUT MY ORIGINAL POST.

I might as well be the first to respond to your updated thread....

Next time wait for a better shot angle. Have a good one.

Well said. Good luck in crawling through the briars tomorrow.

I only speak for myself when I say this, but I pray that it is a sentiment held by most if not all other hunters here:

Not one of us is perfect, and while I feel it safe to say none of us wanted this outcome, there is a valuable lesson being learned by more than just the man who pulled the trigger. There are younger hunters, first time hunters, and men who have only recently taken up the sport who will no doubt read this thread,stop and reconsider next time they are faced with a questionable shot. I for one am not going to throw stones. I have made my share of mistakes in life, and I appreciate you -wholelottagobble - for being upfront and letting us use this story as a chance for everyone to learn how to better respect the game we hunt.

And just in case, good luck on your search tomorrow, I hope you find him.

Thanks for the update, I hope it goes the way we all want it to tomorrow. Thanks for an honest response and your dedication.

Thanks for the update and your assessment... We all appreciate your hardsearch efforts, and wish you the best tomorrow.
-fsh

Thanks for the reply and the update... the guy let you borrow his dog?? That is more than nice.. There are not many people around like that. It takes alot of trust to do that. I hope you find your deer

From the way you describe plenty of blood at the point of impact and then nothing after a few yards. From your shot angle I would say you probably got the heart and without it pumping you won't have any blood unless you have a low exit. I would think your best bet at finding him would be to keep your search within 150 yards of your stand. Good luck!