The season for me around my area closed on the 14th of October, I sat that evening and had photos of my target buck pretty well every night.. I heard what sounded like a flat moderately loud sound with no typical rifle echo, almost what two pieces of heavy plywood would sound like smashing together. any how, ML was also open and closed the same day.. I went and checked cam's, 4 days later and no pics..! ?"! could it be..?
I can see how that idea could creep into your head and not leave. i wouldn’t change what i’m doing though (or worry about it for that matter).
I appreciate the optimism..! but the likely hood of every other buck showing up and not changing routines yet, and he did.. seams low..! perhaps he was someone else's target buck as well..! so mad..
I definitely know your pain I watch nice bucks all summer only to have them disappear just as the season opens just to reappear after season closes. But something you have to consider is that its almost that time for bucks to start wondering and then anything can happen. So until the sun sets on the last day, chin up!! Good luck!!