Topgun 3006

I have to agree with super hunt54 and Rockport on this one. From the little time spent today and based on what the OP has stated, I would have been out there the entire day checking every possible place that buck could have gone.

ManofTheFall

We did go back out. Here is a pic of the arrow. What do you think about. There was very little blood on the shaft at all. Here is what was on the fletchings. Also this morning there was no buzzards, no crows. On my way home, 3 miles away I saw about 20 buzzards so i know they were definitely out today. No crows going crazy anywhere. I'm angry cause I rushed the shot, I more or less pointed instead of aiming. I was panicking cause it was low light, and I wanted to get the shot off even though it was a really close shot. I think I had a case of buck fever which hasn't happened to me in years. But after all this I have a good feeling he is alive and well.

Champlain Islander

Hard to tell from the fletching but if the shaft didn't have blood it would indicate a bad hit at least to me. Sometimes those really close shots are hard since it seems hard to believe you wouldn't hit it good. I always remember the trick shot that made me a few bucks at 3D shoots. Pick a bullseye at 5 ft and bet someone they can't hit it. Most will shoot inches below the target. Depending on the bow and sight the 40 yd pin will usually be close. Too bad it happened but that is hunting. I wish I could get a second chance on all the shots I blew over the years. Who knows you might even see that big guy again and get another chance. A buddy blew a chance and wounded on an 8 point and later in the year bagged it when the rifle season came. When he processed the deer he found his broadhead all covered with grizzle in the chest section of the deer. It passed through the sweet spot but somehow missed all the vitals and lodged on the opposite side in the ribs. Deer are a tough animal.

ManofTheFall

He's still alive!!!!! The big buck that I shot 9 days ago is definitely still alive. Yep, He's still alive but he does have a limp on his right front leg. Other than that he looks okay. He was off to my right and I saw him through some trees. I didn't think he'd see me so I grabbed my bow and he must of caught my movement. He turned and bounded a few steps then started walking and let out one snort. I guess in the low light I didn't account enough for the steep shot angle with him being so close. The hit actually looked half decent but because of the angle he is still walking. I did get a better look at his rack and I would guess he is a solid 160" or better. Now you all know what the rest of my season will be dedicated to.