I posted this in my team forum but also wanted to share this with the hunting community. A lesson to be learned by young and old. 36 years bowhunting and stupid stuff does happen. Enjoy the read below: Ok, the post of shame.....................I missed a dandy 9 point 130 class BUCK tonight. Told Tony (PT) I was not gonna post this until tomm. but decided to fess up. The story: Saw no movement except squirrels and a redfox up to the last 30 minutes of shooting light. Then 2 small doe come down off the hill and mill around for a few minutes. Then 2 large doe come off the hill and mill around in front of me with the other doe. I decided not to pop one of the doe in the hope a buck was following. Well, 5 minutes later here comes Mr. 9 point "never seen him before". He takes alot longer to work his way down the hill to the creek so I am able to get a good look at him and start counting. My final guess right before I drew was 132 plus or minus 4. So, I got 4 doe in front of me a spike with a broke leg walks in behind me and Mr. 9 point who finally walks in the shooting lane and stops perfect. I draw the bow and think he is standing next to the 33 yard tree which I ranged earlier this year. I settle the 30 yard pin just a tad below midway on the body and right behind the shoulder, I am thinking with 2 to 3 yards more the arrow should drop in perfect. Snap goes the release, as soon as the arrow flies off I already know I missed. Darn arrow goes 1 inch over his back, he turns and runs back the way he came in, the doe follow him. I reach for my range finder and range the stupid tree, 24 yards. There are three trees I ranged earlier this year for that particular trail/shooting lane, 18 yard tree, 24 yard tree and the 33 yard tree. Like an idiot I thought he was standing next to the 33 yard tree when in reality he was right next to the 24 yard tree. Watched the broke leg spike buck and gave serious thought of putting him out of his misery. Decided to let him go, if I see him next time He may have to die. Guys I am sorry, nothing more I can say. Did a thorough check of the arrow and I got nothing but dirt. All I can do now is get back in a tree tomm. morning and try again. BTW, me and Tony had a good laugh about the entire incident. I feel lucky to have had the chance at Mr.9 point. Once again I apologize for my error. Inserting own foot in own arse now !!! Dave
Well, that sucks. Good luck getting him the next go-round. Bright side...at least it was a clean miss.
