Last night I was surrounded by deer. Close to 30 deer, consisting of doe, BB, spikes, fork horns and a few small 6's and a decent 8pt. Was just getting ready to smack a good size doe when the wall hanger arrived. P/Y material. Came in on the string of estrus pee I laid down. He stopped at 15 yards, but had a few small branches and twigs in the way of my Excal crossbow shot. Just 3 steps further and he would be in the perfect spot for a double lung shot. He stood behind the branches for all of 45 seconds. Enough time for me to start getting buck fever. Next thing I know the entire herd of deer are running away. No snorts, no blows or any signs of me being seen. I'm still sick to my stomach and wondering if I should have taken the questionable shot.

You did the right thing! It isn't worth wounding an animal by forcing the shot. He will be back!

I let two bucks walk this year - one was small, the other was a monster. IMHO you're a better man if you can let them walk & get a perfect shot next time. Look at the bright side - we're seeing stuff. I know lots of people who haven't even seen a buck this year , let alone let one walk...

Yeh i agree you made a good call, ya never no he might show himself again before the season's over and if not, he just might be even bigger next hunting season.

I kick myself all the time. I scoped my blackpowder rifle this year and have been itching to take a deer with it. I had to pass up the only shot I had with it so far. I had a doe in some brush and quite possibly could have gotten her but I just couldn't pull the trigger. I don't want to lose a deer to a bad shot so I held off. I know that isn't the same thing as letting a nice buck walk, but for me, I hate letting anything walk.

Hunting is an emotional roller coaster.

My friend.you saw more deer in your stand in that one day then I've seen from a stand in a life time..you are very blessed..I've never seen a Pope and Young from a stand..a 130 may have been tops and that may be stretching it.{ -;

Count your blessings.
Chuck

I redeemed myself this evening. I didn't see the deer that alluded me to begin this post. However, I was lucky enough to harvest my first 10 pt with a crossbow. Made a great shot and the deer only ran 50 yards before expiring. Not kicking myself anymore. I feel good for not making a bad shot with the prior deer. Plus he is still out there. I just got my Christmas present. Happy Holidays!!!!!!!!