Don't talk to deer before you release an arrow. Last night I had a doe come down the trail I had my ground blind set up on. She was walking at a steady pace, Definitely going somewhere. She had passed through two of my three shooting lanes. I was drawn and anchored. She was walking through the third, but since it was only about ten inches wide I didn't want to release as she walked, thought I might follow through and hit a branch. I gave a soft bleat. she stopped at 13 yards and looked at me as I released looking at a spot between two ribs. The arrow looked perfect. She bolted and I could see the arrow flying beyond her. I thought it was kind of funny how high and fast the arrow was still moving. As I replayed the scene I realized I had not heard the sound of a hit. When I checked 20 minutes later I could find no hair or blood. I couldn't find the arrow, even though I saw it in the air beyond her and had a line of flight. She must of dropped as she bolted, just as the arrow passed. It happened so fast I barely saw it.
It was beautiful night and great to have had a plan I formulated in March when I picked the spot pan out in the first sit. After she went by her two little ones followed. They were still pretty small, so I am actually glad I missed. September will have to be bucks only to let the lambs get a bit bigger.
Some of those fawns still are pretty small. Probably not a bad idea to let some of the does walk. It's a special moment when you're hunting from the ground and a shot presents itself. Good luck with the rest of your season! :thumbsup:
Bernie Bjorklund
NC Iowa/SW Wisconsin
Great story Micheal,
And thanks for the advice...I still have a month before ours opens. I missed a 4pt last year at a mere 8 yards (over the back ) - the only shot I got last fall.
I wish you many more oportunities this season.
God Bless,
I have heard that you can stop a deer with a burp.. but then I think you now have an alert, edgy deer looking for something. Not a good combo for a "slow" longbow.... IMO