Just got back from our annual archery trip to our cabin in eastern oregon. Spent three and a half days chasing mulies, had a wonderful time and got in on ALOT of bucks, probably 30-40 different bucks on about 700 acres of land. Last night I put up my ground blind where I had seen a couple bucks come out of a canyon at last light. Right as the sun sets, I look up the canyon and see three bucks and a doe coming towards the blind. They ended up coming into the alfalfa field at about 25 yards, and I passed up numerous shots as I hoped they would move closer. If I had been standing out of the blind, I wouldve taken that shot in a second, but didnt feel comfortable with it in the blind. After watching the bucks for about a half hour, I notice the largest (26" wide 3x4) is moving my direction. At 20 yards exactly he turned broadside. I bring my 62" Matlock longbow back and release, and watch the arrow fly less than two inches over his shoulder. He takes two bounds, looks around, and continues eating. It was then that I remember that I often shoot high off my knees, as I tend to overdraw. I am just sick that I missed, although I realize it couldve been worse. Beautiful deer though, and we had a great time. Look forward to going back next year and chasing them again.
I feel your pain. There is a mule deer in Colorado that still haunts my dreams after two years. I have missed other animals, but not like him. He was so big that my brain told me he was closer than he was. I wached slack-jawed as the arrow passed under his chest. Just another reason to go back!
Nice story. Steal some time and go back!
I switched to trad this year, or that huge forky Sunday would have been shot...he was just east of Hebo and south of The Dalles. :knothead:
Brad
I think it was Buck Fever. It happens to the best of us Bud!
I don't over think a miss too long because, as Gregg pointed out too, these misses become a life long memory.
I have a wall of trophy's and enjoy them, but I have fonder and more longing memories of missed opportunities.
That is why go hunting and not go killing. And as Brad said - go get him.